Flexible Thinking

We had a very special guest teacher join us in math yesterday. Mrs. Schade, our district's math coach, spent time in our room showing us her mathematical expertise.  The students had an opportunity to learn from the best, and she certainly performed her magic!

We have been working on different strategies to multiply fractions by whole numbers and other fractions.  The students have used chips and a tape diagram to model these types of problems.  They have also learned how to abstractly solve using only numbers and symbols.  Mrs. Schade modeled the application of these strategies within word problems.  She offered some wonderful insight into being a mathematical thinker.  According to Mrs. Schade, "A mathematical thinker is a flexible thinker." This is something that I will continue to remind my students.  Not all problems look the same and not all problems can be solved the same way. 

The students truly impressed me with their level of engagement and knowledge.  While they were asked to really stretch their thinking, I saw determination, collaboration, and awesome coaching!  I am proud of my SUPER MATHEMATICIANS!