I teach students who fall far below grade level in math and parents tell me all the time how impossible Common Core Math concepts are. They don’t even get it, so how can they help their children? But math itself doesn’t change–the way we look at it does. If you want to help your children […]
Mathematics
Posted inMathematics, Science
Celebrate Super Pi Day!
Saturday, March 14, 2015 is Super Pi Day, a once in 100 year event. Why Super Pi? Most people think of the mathematical Pi as 3.14 because that is what we use in mathematical calculations. Therefore March 14 is referred to as Pi day. This year there are two times during the day where a […]
Posted inInstructional Strategies, Mathematics, Middle School, Uncategorized
The Algebra Walk
The understanding of algebra is one of the keys to succeeding in higher level math courses. For this reason we must find a way to help more students become competent in algebra. I have mentioned in previous articles that I taught algebra to 8th graders in an urban middle school. I repeat it here so […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education, Elementary School, High School, Instruction & Curriculum, Literacy, Mathematics, Middle School, Science, Social Studies
Dr. Seuss: It's For Big Kids Too
Theodor Seuss Geisel is known in classrooms, libraries and by elementary age children for his fun and crazy books. There is a special language he developed, perfected and used to engage children in reading. Â From his first book, “And To Think I Saw it on Mulberry Street” to his ever popular “Cat in the Hat” […]
Posted inFeatured, Instruction & Curriculum, Mathematics
Taking The Trouble Out Of Word Problems
Word problems for younger elementary grades can be challenging if kids don’t know how to break them apart. There is a meme about word problems that reads, ‘If you have 4 pencils and I have 7 apples, how many pancakes will fit on the roof? Purple because aliens don’t wear hats.’ This illustrates the probable […]
Posted inElementary School, Featured, Mathematics, Series, The Student Teacher Diaries
Student Teaching Diaries: The First Unit
We are well into week three and things in our classroom and working well. Â If you missed the start of this journey, check out our previous articles on The Educator’s Room. Â Being a mentor teacher is a letting go of yourself so someone else can learn. Â I am finding ways to keep myself busy during […]
Posted inClassroom Management, Elementary School, Instruction & Curriculum, Mathematics
Elementary Math: One Approach to Differentiation
When I was an elementary student, many years ago, I was a quick learner.  I remember sitting in the classroom and looking for ways to challenge myself.  I was often reading/working ahead or helping others around me.  I was thrilled when I made it  into junior high and was able to take upper level math classes.  Here, […]
Posted inInstructional Strategies, Mathematics, Special Education
Using Food to Teach Fractions: Math You Can Eat
Like most students I teach, my students all got taught multiplying fractions the classic way. You multiply the numerator by the numerator and the denominator by the denominator. You either learn the method or you don’t (just like any other procedural method you learn in math). Many kids take to concrete methods of learning better […]