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Category: Algebra

Pattern and the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics

Pattern and the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics

Mathematics is often described as the science of pattern.  Through looking for, reasoning about, and describing numeric and geometric patterns, students come to realize that mathematics reflects order and predictability.  This is a significant discovery because students who understand the power of patterns in math are more confident in their ability to do math.  So when the Common Core State Standards first came out and I didn’t see a whole lot about pattern and patterning activities in the early years,…

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The Equals Sign: CCSSM

The Equals Sign: CCSSM

I love activities that are super simple yet pack a powerful punch.  This is one of those.  And the good news is, it can be done no matter what grade level you teach which means it lends itself well to differentiation.  But the even better news is that it covers a lot of standards in a fun and engaging way. The main objective, however, is to teach the concept of equality in equations. (I should mention that one of my…

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Family Math Night ‘What Do You Notice?’ Poster

Family Math Night ‘What Do You Notice?’ Poster

As I was thinking about my ‘What Do You Notice?’ poster for my Nifty Numbers Family Math Night event last night, it seemed natural to tie it in with numbers. So here’s the poster I created. As with all my ‘What Do You Notice’ posters, they can be “answered” on a variety of levels. This one can go all the way to algebraic equations. And that’s what makes them so much fun. Everyone can do them! What I loved about…

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Multiplication Facts the Fun Way

Multiplication Facts the Fun Way

Here’s a super simple activity that helps students to “see” multiplication facts. It’s also a great way for them to see the connection between addition and subtraction as they “use addition to find the total number of objects arranged in rectangular arrays” (CCSSM 2.OA.C.4) and to “interpret products of whole numbers” (CCSSM 3.OA.A.1). Using inch graph paper, have students make rectangular arrays and record the rows (horizontal) and columns (vertical) as multiplication equations. This is a good time to discuss…

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