A Daily - Thurs, Sept 10

What a blast, today! The classroom was lively, the kids were on task, AND having fun! One of our early lessons in our Connected Math book involved fractions. A simple activity was suggested...using paper strips and folding them in various ways to show several fractions. Judy conducted a mini-lesson on fractions, and led the activity by having kids work in their table groups. They were able to try the folding activities by themselves but were allowed to discuss and problem-solve with their table mates. Part of the question section in their math assignment was directed at strategies. Students were asked to write about what strategies they used to arrive at their successful fraction models. I sat in with a couple table groups and "played dumb." I asked kids to tell me what they were doing, what they were trying to accomplish, and whether they were successful for not. They love to talk about their work. Even some of our kids who struggle with attention issues were very involved with this activity. When groups arrived at their initial results, they were asked to report to the whole class strategies that worked well, and difficulties they faced. Judy allowed the kids to use the ActivBoard and camera/projector thingy. I sensed a lot of pride in the kids showing their successes and sharing in their challenges. It's great to think we can teach these great concepts and skills creatively and at very little cost (supplies). The hands-on approach was truly remarkable!