We are good mathematicians!

 Solving simple math problems in our head (mental math) and explaining our thinking is something we always work on in our classroom.  

This week we have been lucky to have Mrs. Gadsby come into our classroom and guide us through solving a sequence of math problems that are related - also called a "string".  The solving of these problems in a specific sequence helps students to understand how a particular strategy works. 

First, Mrs. Gadsby gives the students a quick peak at an arrangement of beads on the math rack before covering the beads up.  

Next, the students share what they saw.  In the above picture, there are 5 red beads and 2 white beads shown (we are working with what is shown on the left side.). 

Some students said they saw 7.  When probed further they said I saw 5 and 2, 5 +2 = 7.  Others saw it differently- I saw 3 and 2 more red beads which I know makes 5 plus 2 more equals 7.  

Each time a new arrangement of beads is shown the students share what they see and how they were able to see that number.  They are only given a quick peak in order to challenge them to use the most efficient counting strategies (e.g., seeing a group of 5 and counting on from there instead of counting from 1 up to the final number).  

All students answers and thinking are written down and honoured.  

After only a few mini-lessons, Mrs. Gadsby agrees...WE ARE GOOD MATHEMATICIANS!

Way to go, Grade 1 and thank you Mrs. Gadsby!