Continuing The Search

Currently I am in a Learning Resource Center classroom that focuses entirely on math. We have a 6^th grade class and three 7^th/8^th grade mixed classes. This school year I have started to think about the idea that I am not teaching them math, I am actually teaching them to be problem solvers. Chapter 6 alludes to this idea when it asks, “What Really Counts?” I like the idea of thinking of my students on a journey of learning. Mathematical concepts are just one tiny part of this journey, but I do try to remind them that when you practice problem solving in math you will strengthen your mind for solving the “real” problems you will face in other areas of life.

I am also reflecting on student suppositions. I often end class with a brain teaser problem activity. These problems are related to math, logic and science.  When I am thinking correctly and not in a rush I try to have the class break down the question, tell me what they think it is asking and explain what certain words and phrases mean. Recently we attempted a problem that asked “if an archer scored 100 points by hitting a target with the scoring zones of 16, 17, 23, 24, 39 and 40, how many arrows did she use?”  The question is difficult enough on its own, but if you do not know what an archer is, or what the target might look like, this problem makes even less sense. Checking in with the students and having them contribute definitions and pictures were very helpful.