For me, math journals and contextual problems that press student thinking are my favorite fruits of this class. I ask my kids to do some heavy duty problem solving and to show it in as many ways as they can. I started a wikispace as an educational tool for parents to see how kids are problem- solving on their own in meaningful ways. I post the contextual problems and the kids' solutions on the wiki. I'd love for you to see what they've been doing. Look here to check it out. It also explains my math journals in more detail.
Here are a few problems that we've recently worked on. See if you can dissect their strategies.
Miss McMorrow's class started out with some stars from the lunch lady. She gave them 10 more. They ended up with 17 stars. How many stars did they start with?
Miss McMorrow was lifting weights at the gym. While working her calves, she used 45 pounds, 25 pounds, and 5 pounds. How much weight did she lift altogether?
They amaze me!
Wow! I am seriously impressed with your kiddos! Love your prompts!!
ReplyDeleteLaura
Peace, Love, and First Grade
Thanks Laura. I try to keep those math problems as much about them as possible.
DeleteWOW!! That is fantastic! Way to go kiddos!
ReplyDeleteMelanie
First Grade Brain Sprinkles
Thanks Melanie. They are pretty cool mathematicians.
DeleteThis is awesome, and one reason why I love math!! Sooo many different ways to solve one problem.
ReplyDeleteAmy
The Crazy Adventures of a University Graduate
Amy, thanks for coming by. I love all the different strategies too.
DeleteThis is amazing!! These kids are learning higher level thinking and problem solving that will carry them far in life! Come teach in my school please!
ReplyDeleteLori
Conversations in Literacy
Thank you Lori. I never enjoyed contextual problems as a student. I'm so glad my kids have no fear when it comes to solving problems like this. (I'm not sure my 24 kids will let me leave. You might just have to come teach in my school instead.) :)
DeleteThank you Jennifer for dropping by and leaving a comment!
ReplyDeleteLove it! They are such smarty pants!
ReplyDeleteThanks friend. Yep, they are smarty pants.
DeleteI love how you post it on your wikispace!
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie. Hopefully it helps the parents understand what math is all about.
DeleteYour samples are GREAT! By the way...Thanks so much for the lovely blogger award!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome Jill. Thanks for coming by!
DeleteI just found your blog, and I am your newest follower! My husband is from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho!!!
ReplyDeleteMichelle
Apples and ABC's
Michelle, thanks for coming by! I love that you found me.
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