Teaching Percentages in Small Steps: Using Benchmark Percents From 1% to 100%
Find the Percent of a Number using Benchmark Percentages Years ago, as a new teacher, I remember one particular day when I asked my class what 5% of 50 was and the variety of answers and calculations I received in response was wide ranging and an eye opener! It certainly highlighted the confusion that students […]
Get Ready for Math: 20 Tips to Start the School Year Strong
It’s time to get ready for math in upper elementary! Back-to-school season can be an exciting yet stressful time for all teachers. The summer break is a time that I like to recharge energy levels however I also schedule time each week to prepare for the academic year ahead. I have found that this helps: […]
How to Use the Big Seven Division Method
What is Big Seven strategy for division? The Big 7 division method is a useful way to introduce long division using partial quotients. By partial quotient, we refer to the factor or number that we multiply the divisor by. I often use this partial quotient method to introduce students to division. The name comes from […]
Mastering Metric Conversions: Tips and Strategies for 4th Grade Math Teachers
Introduction One aspect that remains constant is the metric system. Understanding and converting metric measures within the same system is an essential skill that our students need to become proficient in early in their educational journey. As an upper elementary math teacher, you play a crucial role in equipping your students with this skill. In […]
Creating a Comprehensive Math Intervention Tool Kit: Must-have Math Manipulatives
As an educator dedicated to supporting students with math difficulties, I find that hands-on learning tools and math manipulatives can make all the difference in driving progress. That’s why I have a math intervention tool kit that contains essential items, ready to use for individual or group lessons or RTI math programs. I wholeheartedly recommend […]
Strategies and Activities for Comparing and Ordering Whole Numbers in Upper Elementary
In this blog article, we explore the reasons why students need to compare and order whole numbers and the teaching strategies you can use to help students master this skill. You will also find quick starter activity suggestions for your class. Why is comparing and ordering numbers an important math skill? Comparing and ordering multi-digit […]
12 Upper Elementary Math Starters for Engaging Students
Starter activities or math icebreakers are so important in my lessons. I think I may enjoy them as much, if not more, than the students! I believe they are a really effective way of engaging and motivating students from the beginning, creating a positive mindset, building community and the opportunity to revisit prior learning. Below […]