Uncovering Student Thinking About Mathematics In The Common Core Grades

In the era of Common Core State Standards, understanding students' thinking is crucial for effective mathematics instruction. By uncovering the way students think about mathematical concepts, teachers can address misconceptions, provide targeted support, and promote deeper understanding. This article explores various strategies and techniques for uncovering student thinking about mathematics in the Common Core grades.

The Importance of Uncovering Student Thinking

Uncovering student thinking goes beyond simply assessing their knowledge of math facts or procedures. It involves understanding their reasoning processes, their ability to apply mathematical principles in real-life contexts, and their level of conceptual understanding. By uncovering student thinking, teachers can tailor their instruction to meet individual needs, provide meaningful and appropriate challenges, and foster a positive learning environment.

Strategies for Uncovering Student Thinking

1. Observations and Informal Conversations

One effective strategy is to carefully observe students while they are working on math problems and engage in informal conversations with them. This allows teachers to gain insights into students' thinking and reasoning processes. By asking open-ended questions and encouraging students to explain their thought processes, teachers can uncover their understanding and identify any misconceptions.

Uncovering Student Thinking About Mathematics in the Common Core, Grades 6-8: 25 Formative Assessment Probes

by Cheryl Rose Tobey (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20691 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	229 pages
Paperback	:	60 pages
Item Weight	:	5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.15 x 9 inches

FREE

2. Think-Alouds and Reflective Journals

Encouraging students to engage in think-alouds, where they describe their thinking processes as they solve math problems, can provide valuable information about their understanding. Similarly, reflective journals allow students to articulate their thoughts and reflect on their own learning. Teachers can then review these journals to gain deeper insights into students' thinking and identify areas that require further instruction.

3. Formative Assessment

Formative assessment plays a vital role in uncovering student thinking. By using tasks and questions that require students to explain their reasoning or justify their answers, teachers can assess their level of understanding. This provides valuable feedback that can guide instructional decisions and interventions.

4. Error Analysis

Examining students' errors can provide valuable insights into their thinking processes. By analyzing common misconceptions and errors, teachers can identify patterns and address them through targeted instruction. Error analysis helps teachers understand the root causes of misconceptions and tailor their teaching strategies accordingly.

Using Technology to Uncover Student Thinking

Technology can be a valuable tool for uncovering student thinking in mathematics. Online platforms and applications allow teachers to observe students' problem-solving processes, gather data, and analyze their thinking. Interactive tools and virtual manipulatives enable students to express and explore their thinking in a dynamic and engaging way.

Uncovering student thinking in mathematics is essential for effective instruction and promoting deeper understanding. By employing various strategies such as observations, think-alouds, formative assessments, and technology integration, teachers can gain valuable insights into students' thinking processes. This knowledge allows for targeted instruction, addressing misconceptions, and fostering a positive learning environment where students can thrive in their mathematical journey.

Uncovering Student Thinking About Mathematics in the Common Core, Grades 6-8: 25 Formative Assessment Probes

by Cheryl Rose Tobey (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20691 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	229 pages
Paperback	:	60 pages
Item Weight	:	5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.15 x 9 inches

FREE

Here’s the middle-grades math resource you’ve been waiting for! Bestselling authors Cheryl Tobey and Carolyn Arline are back with 20 entirely new assessment probes that pinpoint subconcepts within the new Common Core Standards for Mathematics to promote deep learning and expert math instruction. Learn to ask the right questions to uncover common student misconceptions. Get practical instructional ideas that build new and accurate skills--while learning is already underway. It’s all here in this detailed and grade-level specific guide.

• Organized by strand, the probes will enable you to:

• Quickly and objectively evaluate common misconceptions around fractions and decimals, linear equations, ratios and percents, statistics, and more

• Systematically address conceptual misunderstandings and procedural mistakes--before they become long-term problems

• Help students better understand areas of difficulty

• Plan targeted instruction that builds on students’ current understandings while addressing areas of struggle

• Master the essential CCSM mathematical processes and proficiencies for Grades 6-8.

You’ll find sample student responses, extensive Teacher Notes, and research-based tips and resources. Eliminate the guesswork and join thousands of busy middle-grades teachers who’ve used these easy-to-implement tools to foster solid math proficiency!