Math is Figure-Out-Able!

Being able to scale comfortably is important for both whole and decimal numbers. And just as there are more sophisticated ways to handle scaling with whole numbers, we can also be more sophisticated scaling decimals! In this episode Pam and Kim describe how we can help students become comfortable with decimal multiplication using their understanding of whole number multiplication and then scaling.Talking Points:Reflecting on the more sophisticated strategy from Ep 106Applying knowledge of whole number multiplication to decimalsIt's more about reasoning than shifting the decimalReasoning in small steps builds understanding vs. just counting the decimalsReasonableness comes from keeping kids in reasoning landLanguage to focus on and language to avoid

How can we help students make sense of decimal multiplication? In this episode Pam and Kim run through two beginning Problem Strings that will get students feeling comfortable and understanding the world of multiplying decimals.Talking Points:Which models are helpful Decimals and moneyStudents need to develop a few starting relationships before becoming more sophisticatedSmart Partial Products with decimals

We've gotten a ton of questions about decimals. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss three different models and why they are great for questioning and building relationships, but may or may not be good for computation.Talking Points:Base Ten Materials Exploding Dots by James TantonMoney 

Most students can scale up by ten as they begin to multiply larger numbers and that is a great starting place for students. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a more sophisticated way of scaling numbers in multiplication problems. Talking Points:How beginning learners will use multiplying by 10 in double digit multiplication problems.How more sophisticated students deal with smaller numbers then scale up.How this applies to middle school students.How can Five is Half of 10 be used with more sophisticated thinking?

Often people misunderstand what this game we call mathematics is and feel they aren't good enough to play. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss how students need the opportunity to experience and play in the real game of mathematics.Talking Points:Mathematizing is not about speedPam, the basketball playerIt's not about memorizing disconnected rules and procedures.Kim, the teacher pleaser Experience and opportunities are important so kids have choicesWe need all students in the game of mathIs there such a thing as a "math gene" or natural talent?All students have different talents to bring to the tableTake the Math Perspective Quiz to find more about your perspective of math class and instruction.All students have talents to bring to the table

It's our two year anniversary! We are so grateful you've spent this time with us. In this episode Pam and Kim discuss openly things they've learned and how they've grown during their journey as math teacher educators.Talking Points:It's not 'Pam Math', it's Real Math and developing mathematicians!Coaching teachers is about mentoring, not just tellingThe importance of a common vocabulary - Check out Episodes 58 and 101Empowering teachers and leaders through Journey and Journey LeaderDeep dive online workshops for Kindergarten through middle schoolBuilding Powerful Linear Functions for high school coming soon!

What are some examples of rich tasks that are designed to intrigue and engage students? In this episode Pam and Kim give some specific examples and describe why they are so rich.Talking Points:Relatable to students not just real worldAn eye towards equityLead to the mathematicsPacked with patternsNatural extensionsMake the math realizableBuilding Powerful Linear Functions coming Fall 2022See Ep 47: Fractions as Fair Sharing where we explored the Sub Sandwich rich task!

Let's talk rich tasks! On Twitter we enjoyed a great conversation about what makes a rich task rich. We thought we'd comment on some great suggestions from Professor Tad Watanabe, inspired from his mentor Dr. Grayson Weatley.Talking Points:Invite students to make decisionsReplete with patternsPromote discussion and communicationTasks should lead somewhereBe extendableHave an Element of SurpriseAnd More!

Dive into the fascinating world of mathematical strategies! The hosts explore various interpretations of 'strategy' in teaching, highlighting how different approaches can shape learning outcomes. Discover effective teaching tactics that boost student engagement and comprehension. Learn about numeracy strategies and problem-solving techniques that move beyond rote memorization. With an emphasis on the importance of a solid foundation in math, the discussion reveals how strategic thinking transforms classroom dynamics.

We love that we've been able to make 100 episodes! We also love that 1 hundred is 10 tens, so let's talk place value! In this episode Pam and Kim discuss why students struggle with place value, and suggest some of their favorite place value activities.Talking Points:Why 'place labeling' is ok, but not enoughCount AroundsMultiple TowersBase 10 materialsUsing correct place value language