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Last month I attended the MCTM conference in
Columbia, Missouri. This reflection describes some of the big ideas taken from
seven sessions attended at this year’s fall conference.
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During this session, there were two presenters that helped us take vague questions that we ask in the classroom and make specific questions that include higher levels of critical thinking. At the beginning of the session, we were told to cut a square out of a piece of paper and find a way to justify what a fourth of that piece of paper would like. Many of us folded our squares into fourths and were done. However, some people folded theirs into eighths and a few even went as far as to describe the formulas they would use with their squares to get to 1/4 of the square. This session also talked about teaching students "WHY". We all know we hear, "Why do we have to learn this? When will I ever use this outside of school? Why do I need to learn it this way and not the easy way?" Growing Patterns During the second session, the presenters really used the concepts of deciding how a pattern grows and identifying the input and output by using a calculator program. However, I also learned that students can use blocks to help them find the formula to different equations, like a game of Tetris.
Why Cross Multiply?
This was one of my favorite sessions! I learned how to use tape diagrams to solve proportions instead of the ol' "Cross Multiply and Divide" method. The presenter was able to give us multiple examples, and she also gave us an amazing resource in MathPlayground. MathPlayground gives the students a visual of the "how" this is will work using the tape diagram. iPad vs. Chromebook iPad vs. Chromebook Smackdown was another great session to attend. During this session, the presenter used a variety of different apps and technological pieces that students may enjoy and rated which type of technology would be more user friendly. Middle Years Math Games Using Cards and Dice This session was full of different ideas for fast finishers or review games. Mrs. Garcia always showed how some of her games aligned to the Common Core Standards. Some of the games will also be review for reassessment during my ELT lessons. Surface Area Without Formulas This session was all about using nets and polydrons to find the surface area of different 3 dimensional objects. Math + Games = Engagement: Yes, another game session. During this session, attendees played the games to learn the games. The two teachers that presented during this lesson used these games for RTI, review, and fast finishers. Come, Watson! The Game is Afoot! This last session was another favorite of mine. The presenter showed us that you don't have to have numerous different manipulatives and tons of money to make game boards and pieces. Dr. Ewing taught us how to have the students, in groups, make their own game boards and design a few of their own rules. Reflection originally shared at https://slate.adobe.com/cp/vur5n/ |
January 3, 2016
Reflections on the MCTM Conference by @AllenDanielle91
