Board members working with students solving math problems.
Learning to Think – Thinking to Learn
What do number talks, penguin, and modeling have to do with learning math? Everything! Learning math is more than memorizing facts and formulas. It is developing a mathematical mindset and learning to think like a mathematician. It is learning to apply mathematics to real world situations.
Rather than instructing students on how to solve problems, teachers are constructing opportunities to support students in developing the skills for thinking about math. Number talks engage students in ‘mental math’ where they are grappling with interesting mathematics. They are learning how to make connections, think logically, and use data and numbers creatively.
Jiji is the penguin in the ST (Spatial-Temporal) Math games. ST Math is a game-based instructional software designed to boost math comprehension and proficiency through visual learning. Students’ conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts is developed through solving a series of visual math tasks. Students help Jiji get past obstacles by solving math puzzles. Every time a student demonstrates understanding of a math concept, Jiji crosses the screen leading the student to the next more challenging puzzle.
Mathematical modeling provides students the opportunity to manipulate and explore their mathematical world. Modeling encourages students to use manipulatives such as cuisenaire rods, multilink cubes, and pattern blocks to demonstrate their thinking. It encourages them to use diagrams to draw the problem out. Through modeling students begin to make sense of difficult concepts and understand complex relationships that make math a living and exciting subject.
All children can work as mathematicians. When students have a mathematical mindset they understand that math is a subject of growth and their role is to learn and think about new ideas. They enjoy math and are empowered into higher achievement.
Teresa Lee demonstrating number talks.