One Problem, Multiple Strategies

Most adults remember learning specific strategies for different mathematical processes.  We learned a specific strategy for multiplying numbers, for adding fractions, and for rounding large figures.  One of our focuses in math this year is to recognize that there are many strategies that students can use to solve a particular problem.  In the fall, as kids learned multiplication skills, I think we covered six or seven different strategies.  This might seem like overkill to you, but I should point out that EACH of those strategies resonated with at least one student in class who said that it made particular sense to him or her.  We all think about math differently, so it’s reasonable to conclude that some strategies make more sense than others to different learners.  Similarly, in this fraction unit, we’ve looked at many different ways in which kids can compare fractions, with each one offering pros and cons for students.

Posted in Class Updates|By Jon Moss