Wow..for the final time this year I am blogging about mathematics! Unless of course I am exposed to some wonderful ideas during practicum, but I have just discovered that I will be teaching FSL again! Woo! This means that unfortunately I cannot bring all of the fantastic ideas I've gathered throughout the course, PDs, modules, and from YOU lovely TCs into my classroom, since I am limited to teaching a language (you can imagine all the time & energy that takes!). However, if I am directed to any great resources while I am there, I will definitely be back to share them with you!
To do a quick round-up of what I have learned this week: Math is Everywhere.We practically live, breathe and eat math. It makes up so many of our thoughts and then proceeds to seep into our actions. Because of this, a question to ask ourselves is: How can we improve motivation, interest, and attention in the elementary mathematics classroom? Knowing how dictating and accessible math is, there are plenty of ways and tons of opportunities for some cross-curricular connections as well. Teachers can improve student achievement by turning their attention to resources and strategies that pique students' motivation, emotion, interest and attention. Since math can be discovered in every corner - the daunting task of ours to design enticing lessons shouldn't be that daunting after all. This week's module revealed that math is overarching in nature. We very seldom recognize that animals use math as a necessary means of survival - to construct their habitats, to gather food, and to find their prey. So fascinating! I think it would be interesting to have each student conduct research on a specific animal to inquire how they interact with math.
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| "Mathematics in the Natural Sciences." 17, Oct 2017. Retrieved from: https://www-tc.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/blogs/physics/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2015/04/sunflower_620.jpg |
Having our students connect math to real-world applications is highly beneficial. Not only will it forge a more positive attitude towards the subject, but it will help form a lasting interest, ultimately shaping our students' future. Perhaps transferring the classroom outdoors and having them physically
interact with the math that is observable around us will produce the
greatest results in terms of encouraging the growth mindset we hope to
see in mathematics! I LOVE nature so this is something I definitely plan on incorporating!
Another module we watched this week touched upon math apps and games. When considering
the aspects of a "good" math app or video game, it is important to note
that the game or app is relevant and enhances the expectations that the student is
learning. I remember last year we were given the task to critique different games on www.exploregizmos.com for our science course. As educators, we should continue this reflective way of choosing resources in the ever-evolving 21st century. In my opinion, the app should encourage deeper, critical thinking and
problem solving skills in a fun and engaging way. I also think it is
important for the game to provide various levels, so that the student
can recognize that it is indeed possible to succeed in math, but
further, that they can make connections between levels of difficulty and
build on their previous skills; guiding them to higher-order thinking.
What techniques allowed them to pass the previous level? Students can
fine tune their learning by analyzing this, and LEVEL UP with the level. Finally, math apps and games
should emphasize the practicalities rather than the technicalities of
the creation. The more practical the app is, the more likely a student
will make real-world connections and retain what they have experienced.
Well..that's all folks! I've really enjoyed learning more about mathematics with you all! Hope every one has a very fulfilling block 2 experience!
Until next time,
Have a beau-tea-ful day,
Mlle Capano
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| "The Math Learning Center." Oct 25, 2017. Retrieved from: https://www.mathlearningcenter.org/sites/default/files/images/GB_product_shot_small.png |
Well..that's all folks! I've really enjoyed learning more about mathematics with you all! Hope every one has a very fulfilling block 2 experience!
Until next time,
Have a beau-tea-ful day,
Mlle Capano
Hi Giuliana!
ReplyDeleteI really thought your post was excellent! One of the reason why I enjoyed going through your post was becuase it was a great summary of all the most important things that we learned this past week, and now that the week is over, it served as a great reminder and it also showed me the importance of constantly reflecting and consolidating the information we gather!
Thank you for the great reminder! Best of luck in your placement too!