Math Picture Journal
Ideal Learning Environment for Primary/Junior Classrooms
Not all students learn in the same way. Creating an ideal learning environment for all students can be challenging. There are are some aspects that MOST students will benefit from. Of course, you may have to make adaptations for some students in the class based on their specific needs.
Multi-step Problems that can be Accessed by ALL Students
When students are faced with multi-step problems that can be accessed by all learning styles and at all learning levels student engagement is often higher. Creating problems and activities that all students can show success in will help students gain pride in their math thinking and work.
Students Working Together on Math Tasks
It is important for students to communicate about their math thinking while solving problems in the classroom.
Engaging and Rewarding Tasks
When students are offered incentives for tasks it may keep them engaged longer, they will have more drive to continue their activity until it has been completed.
Having Students use Real Life Problems and Manipulatives
Humans naturally have a drive to solve problem and find solutions. When students are presented with authentic tasks and problems within a classroom setting this often means more engagement.
Print/Online Resources
The Effective Guides are a great resource for understanding and planning with the students best interest in mind. They provide educators with several student strategies, and examples that are often ready to use in the classroom as they are. The student activities also have additional challenges as well as parallel tasks.
Displaying and Celebrating Student Work
It is important for students to be proud of the work they are doing in class. When real classroom tasks and examples (with pictures) are posted in the classroom students can see the hard work they have done. They are also able to refer back to their thinking when it is posted for them to see in the classroom.
Manipulatives are Available and Organized
In the ideal classroom, students should have access to several kinds of manipulatives. Students should also have time to explore the manipulates in the classroom so they know what is available to them and how to use them appropriately.
Sara Cosco
Grade 4
Keewatin- Patricia District School Board
Sioux Mountain Public School
Email: sara.cosco@kpdsb.on.ca
Location: 89 First Avenue North, Sioux Lookout, ON, Canada
Phone: 807-737-3480