Math basics

Number Path

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What are Number Paths?

Introducing Number Paths: A Fun Tool to Fuel Young Minds’ Numeracy Skills!

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of numeracy? Buckle up and get ready to explore a helpful tool that will make learning numbers a breeze for primary students (TK-1). Prepare to say farewell to conventional number lines and welcome the fascinating concept of Number Paths!

Picture this: instead of the usual tick marks, imagine boxes beckoning young learners to count their way to numerical mastery. But what makes Number Paths so special? It’s no secret that young students have an innate desire to count objects, and Number Paths perfectly align with their natural talents.

Number Path examples 1-10 and 1-20

Now, you might wonder why it is recommended to veer away from traditional number lines until 2nd grade. That’s because Number Paths, unlike their linear counterparts, emphasize an essential concept: one-to-one correspondence. While number lines relate to length and space, Number Paths establish a magical connection between numbers and counting objects, fostering a solid foundation for numerical comprehension.

If you haven’t yet experienced the wonders of Number Paths, or are looking for more tools and resources, get ready for an exciting journey! In the upcoming three posts, we’ll not only uncover the incredible benefits of these tools but also share simple strategies to seamlessly integrate them into your TK-1 classroom. With valuable resources at your disposal, mastering numeracy has never been easier. So, buckle up and join us on this daily exploration of Number Paths that promises to expand your knowledge and transform your teaching methods. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s captivating installment!

Multiplication & Division Basics

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In the beginning of the school year, I created Place Value Basics. This was meant as a daily review to get students thinking quickly about some of the basics we learn. It was a big hit! My students went from doing it in 40 minutes (I know, but they needed the time) to around 8 minutes. Pretty good, right!?

Well, they had been bugging me to change it up. THIS is a good sign. So I came up with Multiplication and Division Basics. As some were still having a bit of trouble with Prime Factors, I kept in on this version.

Each year I teach this before Winter Break. Then after this, we head into fractions. Fractions take up all of the 2nd Trimester and by the time 3rd Trimester and the State Test roll around, students have forgotten how to multiply and (deep sigh here) divide. The problem is they have a shaky footing on these concepts before hitting fractions. I know, I’m the teacher… I should go with what they know and base lessons around them. Yes, in an ideal world that is happening. However, the pressure to do Benchmark Assessments and my district’s pacing (don’t get me started on that), and prepping them for the next grade are all too much for me – and them I suspect.

I have seen a great success with my students and the Place Value Basics. I am hoping that they can have the same success with this. How long will it take us in the beginning? Ugh, I hope not the 40 minutes! It’ll take us a while the first week or so, but in time they will successfully complete it in 8 minutes or less! Again, I will start off doing this whole class.