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Category: Problem-Solving

Common Core State Standards in Mathematics – Geometry

Common Core State Standards in Mathematics – Geometry

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?

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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Pocket Chart Concentration – A Game for K-1 Students

Pocket Chart Concentration – A Game for K-1 Students

I used a bunch of left-over stickers I had to make the cards. The first time I played it w/ them, I had only 4 rows and 6 columns. They need to say the letter first followed by the number (getting ready to read the X axis and the Y axis). If students win a pair, they hold on to it and we move on to the next student. Super FUN! .

The Two Most Important Questions to Ask Your Kids

The Two Most Important Questions to Ask Your Kids

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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Celebrate our Base 10 Number System! The 100th Day of School

Celebrate our Base 10 Number System! The 100th Day of School

There’s no better excuse to have kids counting all day than the 100th day of school. Often, teachers have students bring in 100 of something that they sort into groups of 10 (you can also have each student bring in 10 of something and then combine them to make 100). Or maybe it’s a project made with 100 of something. Or making tally marks and skip counting by fives to 100. Whatever you choose, it’s the perfect way to celebrate…

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