We had our first official Math Class on 8/28.  All third graders took the pretest for our first math unit.  Students were grouped to work with different teachers for this unit based on their learning needs.  Some students go to Mrs. Blankley’s and Mrs. Miller’s classrooms during this time.  Other students come and join me for their daily math instruction. On the first day we spent a lot of time getting to know what math class will be like. We played a game called 1-2-3 Math. It’s sort of like Rock, Paper, Scissors except players add the total number of fingers they shoot out and use that number to lead them in a discussion to get to know one another.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Most math classes begin with our fact fluency routine. This is when students will practice flashcards each day and complete timed math quizzes.  We’re starting the year with a review of addition and subtraction and then will move on to multiplication and eventually division.  I refer to this time as “Math Fact Boot Camp” because we need to work hard to whip our brains back into shape from the long summer.  Many students who were fluent with these facts in second grade had a hard time remembering them this week. Hopefully some daily practice at home and school will help us recoup what was learned.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In math class we have a whole group introduction to the day’s topic and skills.  This week we sang some fun songs to help us remember how to add and subtract big numbers.

 

 

During the remaining part of our class time, students will take turns working with me in small groups and working independently on their computers.