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Category: Problem-Solving

Common Core State Standards in Mathematics – Geometry

Common Core State Standards in Mathematics – Geometry

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Why give students the definitions? Why not give them enough information so that they can create the definitions on their own? The Common Core state Standards in Mathematics along with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Standards emphasize allowing students to be actively involved in creating their learning. Through this, they will learn to: -reason abstractly and quantitatively -construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others -attend to precision -look for and make use of structure Besides, the…

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Really, Texas? No calculators?

Really, Texas? No calculators?

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I just read that the Texas State Board of Education is getting rid of calcuators in the elementary grades. It’s a good thing, too, because I’ve no doubt that every kindergarten through fifth grade teacher hands their students calculators so that these teachers can get out of doing what they love doing…teaching. Honestly. Although not approved yet, it’s only a matter of time. Because, as we all know, politicians know best. And, yes board members, you are politicians. I remember…

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The Artistic Side of Math – Tessellations

The Artistic Side of Math – Tessellations

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I love M.C. Escher! I have a whole book on his work and love to share it with my students when we’re studying angle measurement. That’s because we’re going to tie math and art together through modifying polygons similar to how M.C. Escher did it in some of his paintings. It’s all about tessellating shapes and angles. Using pattern blocks, I show students how shapes tessellate. See photo below. Then, I have students determine the angle measurement of each of…

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The Two Most Important Questions to Ask Your Kids

The Two Most Important Questions to Ask Your Kids

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Okay, so I’m talking about the two most important questions you can ask your kids to help develop mathematical thinking. Wait! Don’t go. Math often receives short shrift. It’s unfortunate because math, taught correctly, teaches us how to effectively problem solve. It’s also the perfect subject to teach our kids persistence. Research has shown that kids who are persistent tend to do better academically. And doing well academically has great benefits in life. The two most important questions: #1: WHY?…

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