Yes, we just started our first math curriculum unit and we want you to get on board! Because the teaching of mathematics has been evolving, many families may be unfamiliar with the approaches taken by our Mathematical Investigations curriculum. The children need to apply prior knowledge in ways that make sense to the situation. There may be many paths to follow and many outcomes, depending on the problem; the children must make his or thier own plan for finding a solution.
Parents can assist your children to be independent problem solvers by becoming guides or questioners. You do not need to know how to solve the problem yourself, but you can help the students think through the problem and make a realistic plan for solving it.
Use freely any questions that will help students think about the way they are tackling the problem.
- What have you tried?
- Is there another way to look at the problem?
- Can you explain this to me?
- What makes sense so far?
- Is there another way to think about it?
- What is it you are trying to do/solve/find out?
Here are some good games that encourage math play at home. How math is experienced in the home has a big impact on how children do with math at school. I can offer you some of my favorite.
Set: A card game of logic and visual perception that can be enjoyed by the whole family
Mastermind: A game of logic that can be enjoyed by both children and adults
Checkers/Chess: Great games for developing skill with logical reasoning.
I hope you find these math games as fun as I do. Curl up with children and enjoy playing math. Please let me know if you have other favorites to add to the list.
Sincerely,
Jennifer B
