August 8, 2023, marked the beginning of the school year for my district. As the school buzzed with energy and anticipation, it was a bit crazy but in the best kind of way. It felt good to be back, surrounded by familiar faces and the promise of a fresh start.
One of my primary tasks as a TOSA (teacher on special assignment) and coach is to coach teachers, assisting them in their professional development and helping them navigate the nuances of teaching and new pedagogy. Before that first day, amidst the flurry of preparations and moving classrooms, a teacher approached me with a spirited enthusiasm. She had recently decided to switch grade levels, seeking a new challenge and fresh perspectives in her teaching journey.
Eager to make the year a resounding success, she shared her latest plan with me. She had purchased MathReps, a comprehensive resource designed to enhance mathematical understanding and fluency, on Wipebooks.
With MathReps in her possession, she was eager to begin using them with her students. The versatility of Wipebooks, with their erasable surfaces, offered a tangible way for students to participate actively in their learning, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment.
Off to a good start
The teacher had a great way to start her students on their learning journey by employing a technique that harnessed a low cognitive load. With the objective of introducing the concept of Numbers in Base-Ten (NBT) to her enthusiastic young learners, she began the lesson by carefully reviewing the NBT standards page.
She decided to ease her students into the topic to ensure a smooth and effective start by initially focusing on 2-digit numbers. By doing so, she created a comfortable and approachable learning environment, which allowed her students to grasp the fundamental format and expectations effortlessly.
With the teacher’s thoughtful approach and dedicated efforts, the classroom became a space where students actively participated, their confidence grew, and they developed a deep understanding of Numbers in Base-Ten. The teacher’s commitment to ensuring a low cognitive load at the outset proved to be an effective strategy that set her students up for success, fostering a positive and empowering learning experience for all.
This is where I come in
While the teacher was confident in all the tasks on the page, she did ask for a demonstration on how to round using the number line. On Friday, I went into the classroom to work with the class. They were amazing. They could easily explain many of the concepts being covered.
As we delved into the topic of rounding, I began by asking the students to think about a number line. We discussed how a number line can help us visualize and understand the process of rounding.
The students quickly caught on and started rounding with ease. It was truly inspiring to see their confidence grow as they mastered the concept of rounding using the number line.
Overall, it was a rewarding experience witnessing the students’ enthusiasm and progress in their mathematical journey. The classroom atmosphere was filled with excitement and a sense of accomplishment. I am confident that these young minds will continue to excel in their mathematical abilities, thanks to their dedication and eagerness to learn.
Nowa Techie 