West Dalhousie Math Night

January 27th, 2011

Evening Agenda

WelcomeParent Presentation• Problem-Solving• Mental Mathematics• Manipulatives

Classroom Experience for Families

Problem-SolvingThe Distant Past:

Problems were solved by applying procedures, once proficient

The Recent Past:

Problem-solving strategies were taught separately from other math concepts

Problem-Solving

Current Research Strongly Suggests:

Students learn mathematical skills and procedures best through problem-solving experiences.

“Students should be confident and flexible problem-solvers, using a wide range of strategies in their work, and accept that some problems have different solutions.”(Alberta Program of Studies for K–9 Mathematics)

Why Teach Through Problem-solving?

• Engaging and fun• Allows for success at different levels• Involves all mathematical skills• Reinforces that mathematics makes

sense and is meaningful to students• Prepares students for unpredictable

future

Mental Mathematics• Essential skills in the real world• Encourage the use of personal

strategies• Develop empowered mathematical

thinkers• Require flexible thinking

Mental Mathematics15 x 8 = ?x 8105 x 8

= 40= 80

+120

20 x 8 = 160

5 x 8 = 40-

120

Mental Mathematics15 x 8 = ?

Estimate:10 10

x

Round DownRound Up

15 8

= 100

15 x 8 ≈ 100

Mental MathematicsI had some coins in my pocket that made 39¢. Suddenly, 14¢ fell out. How much money do I have left in my pocket?

39-4

35-10

25

Mental MathematicsI had some coins in my pocket that made 39¢. Suddenly, 14¢ fell out. How much money do I have left in my pocket?

Mental MathematicsI had some coins in my pocket that made 39¢. Suddenly, 14¢ fell out. How much money do I have left in my pocket?

39¢ - 14¢ = ?-4 -4

35¢ - 10¢ = ?

25¢ = ?

ManipulativesAny concrete object that can be usedto show mathematical thinking (blocks, shapes, spinners, folded paper.)

Manipulatives

Manipulatives

How Parents Can Help at Home

• Look for and expose the math in everyday situations (counting, patterning, measuring, estimating)

• Play games that reinforce mathematical thinking and skills (cribbage, dominoes, chess, etc.)

• Encourage multiple ways to solve problems

But What do I Say???

Ask, don’t tell.

•“How do you know?”•“What were you thinking about?”•“Would there be another way to solve this?”•“Is your answer reasonable?”•“Can you teach me how to do it your way?”

What’s Next?

• Travel as a family to each child’s area• Activities in classrooms (problem-

solving, mental math, manipulatives)• Questions• Feedback