After creating MathReps in 2016, I quickly saw the benefits. One of the first ones I created dealt with 5th-grade multiplication and division. That year, I saw many students succeed in connecting the area model of multiplication to the traditional algorithm. In addition, there was a student who connected the partial quotient to the traditional algorithm in division. I can still see where the student was sitting and the conversation that we had.
Me: (pointing to the division problem done using the traditional algorithm) Can you tell me about this?
Student: Sure, I used the toolbox area to do some additional multiplication to help me.
Me: Did someone show you how to do this?
Student: No, I noticed that I could come close to the first two digits of the dividend if I multiplied the divisor. Then, I could subtract and do it all over again using the next two digits [the traditional remainder plus bringing down the next digit].
Me: 😲
Yeah, that was a mind-blowing moment. The student had made connections on their own based on repeated exposure and naturally made the leap to the traditional algorithm. I was blown away!
After that, I have been truly amazed by the countless teachers who have found great success using MathReps and Math EduProtocols in their classrooms. What started as a resource created solely for my own students has turned into something much bigger. I love to share, and it’s been incredible to see teachers from all over reaching out with their own success stories. One example that stands out is a 3rd-grade team who saw amazing results with MathReps. Join the growing community and discover the power of MathReps and Math EduProtocols for yourself!
I have compiled a few postings of what others have to say. If you’d like to see more, you can see them on this Wakelet.
Nowa Techie 