BIG IDEAS in k-8 Math Methods

Today we talked about the "Big Ideas" that we've discussed thus far in class. I illustrated the points on the board and we discussed the importance of each in the classroom. My creative students decided it would be fun to take a photo of the board and have one student appear in all of the shots. Thanks to Alec Johnson and the iPhone 6's panoramic feature!

Here are the BIG IDEAS:

Professionalism
It's important as you prepare to be a teacher!

Evernote
This is our "toolbox" of resources for teaching math. Use it. Add to it.

Online Math Programs
Think about using these as you work to differentiate instruction for students. Some of these tools aren't perfect, but when used as a supplement to your classroom they can add value. Khan Academy, Dreambox, ST Math, IXL Math, Reflex Math, and Knowre are examples of these types of programs.

Math and Mindset
Work to develop a positive attitude about math in your classroom. Don't accept the statement, "I'm not a math person...". Everyone can do math!

Common Core State Standards
Standards drive what we teach. The CCSS in Math have 2 main areas -- Standards for Mathematical Content and Standards for Mathematical Practice. The Content standards tell us what to teach by grade level. The Practice standards tell us the types of things we should be doing in our math classroom across all grade levels.

Problem Solving
This is one of the Standards for Mathematical Practice (MP1). You should be doing these 3 things in your classroom as you prepare students to be problem solvers:

1. You should teach students how to tackle problems. Give them steps and strategies to use to know where to begin.
2. Practice! Use daily routines such as a Problem of the Day.
3. Provide students with interesting, engaging, and real-life problems.

Math Talk
This is one of the Standards for Mathematical Practice (MP3). It's also embedded throughout many of the content standards. Make sure students are explaining and justifying their answers!

Lesson Planning
Planning and preparation are really important. Think about where you want students to end up and then decide:

• What will you do to get their attention? (Before)
• What types of activities will you have them do? (During)
• How will you wrap up? (After)