Math Talk = Deeper Understanding
Creating a classroom environment where students are immersed in real life math tasks and quality math talk is essential for creating deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. The first Standard for Mathematical Practice is to Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. Daily math talk puts this standard into practice and creates a safe setting for questioning and thoughtful risk taking to thrive. Math discourse allows students to think through problems, explore a variety of ideas, and build a toolbox of multiple strategies for problem solving.
Laney Sammons, the creator of the Guided Math framework, shares:
“Mathematical discourse plays an important role in promoting mathematical proficiency. First, consider the fact that the ability to clearly communicate ideas is implicit in most mathematical processes. To express one’s reasoning with precision is one characteristic of mathematical proficiency, so students must have ample practice within the classroom setting. But the value of discourse goes far beyond that.
In order to communicate ideas, students must first reflect on what they already know, make predictions, and determine the importance of the ideas they are considering. Once they have organized their thinking, participating in discourse requires them to put their thinking into words that can be clearly understood by others. The use of appropriate mathematical vocabulary makes discourse more effective, so students must pay close attention to the meaning of the terms. Listening and critically considering the new ideas of others further expands students’ understanding of mathematics. Thus, the entire process and the intellectual give-and-take lead to greater proficiency.”
Opportunities for math communication abound throughout the seven components of the Guided Math Framework. You can click here to see the menu for instruction.
Laney Sammons has licensed ERG to carry on her work in the field and we are excited to offer Guided Math consulting opportunities, materials, and resources. Check out the following links for more exciting information about our offerings:
ERG K-5 Math Institute – Featuring Laney Sammons and the Guided Math Framework – Find details at this link.
Looking for Guided Math resources. We can help with that too. Check them out here.
