19 - David Morkunas On Explicit Instruction In Primary Maths
Aug 12, 2023
auto_awesome
David Morkunas discusses the negative attitude towards teaching math among teachers and the importance of explicit instruction. He shares his approach to teaching primary math using explicit direct instruction and the impact of effective teaching on student outcomes. The podcast also explores the importance of building automaticity in math facts, managing classroom pace, and supporting teachers in developing strong content knowledge. The discussion includes the New Waves program for teaching primary math concepts and the role of instructional coaching in improving classroom practice.
Develop number sense using concrete materials like 10 frames and manipulatives for early years math education.
Use strategies like adding one, adding two, and adding three concepts, doubles and near doubles, and the bridge to 10 strategy for developing fluency in basic math facts.
Implement a strong tier one instruction, provide scaffolding and differentiation, and integrate problem-solving activities to cater to mixed-ability classes.
Deep dives
Developing Number Sense in the Early Years
In the early years, teachers should focus on developing number sense through concrete materials like 10 frames, building numbers, and using manipulatives. They can introduce addition and subtraction concepts using models like 10 frames and teach basic facts through engaging games and review activities.
Developing Fluency in Basic Math Facts
To develop fluency in basic math facts, teachers can use strategies like introducing adding one, adding two, and adding three concepts, focusing on doubles and near doubles, and using the bridge to 10 strategy for more complex addition problems. For multiplication and division, using arrays and reciprocal concepts can help students understand and master the facts. Regular practice and review are also important for building fluency.
Catering to Mixed-Ability Classes
When catering to mixed-ability classes, it is essential to have a strong tier one instruction in place. Teachers should ensure that all students have a minimum expected effort or floor to reach, while providing opportunities for advanced learners to go beyond that level. Scaffolding and differentiating instruction can help students meet their individual needs, and problem-solving activities can be integrated throughout the curriculum to develop critical thinking skills.
Teaching Maths through Concrete and Pictorial Representations
Using concrete representations like 10 frames and bundling sticks, along with their symbolic representations, can effectively teach mathematical concepts and reduce anxiety. The analogy of 'maths anxiety' as being thrown into a foreign language class highlights the importance of providing the right tools for learning. Matching concrete and pictorial representations helps students understand the relationship between numbers and their representations.
Implementing a Successful Maths Block
A strong foundational maths block consists of at least 60 minutes a day, including a 20-minute daily review that covers previously taught content and a mix of different concepts. The review is followed by teacher-modeled lessons on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, introducing new skills and concepts. Independent practice starts later in the week, allowing the gradual release of responsibility. Pace is crucial to keep students engaged and minimize distractions, while differentiation is achieved through a 'low floor, no ceilings' approach, providing opportunities for all students to learn at their own levels.
In this conversation, Brendan Lee chats with David Morkunas and they touch on a range of topics including why he thinks so many teachers have such a negative attitude towards teaching maths, what the key elements of his maths lessons are and how to teach mixed-ability classes.