A VISIT INTO SHEILA MULBRY’S MATH CLASS Meeting G.T. Math Needs

Math Challenge Students begin math by working on a challenge problem (Brainstretcher) that is posted on the board. One student presents his or her solution to the problem in front of the class.

Math Brainstretcher Challenge Here is an example of a 4th Grade math challenge problem.

Another Brainstretcher A student comes to the board and explains the thinking involved in solving the problem. He or she always starts presenting with the phrase, “The question is asking…” That way we are certain that the answer matches what is being asked.

Math -Keeping It Organized Sheila has a color-coded system. Each grade level has their own color: 5 th grade is blue, 4 th grade is red, and 3 rd grade is yellow. These are similar to the Origo Think Tank Boxes. Sheila color-codes all of the math folders, TEKS signs and notebooks this way.

Math – Keeping It Organized Each TEK is posted so the children know the goal they are working on. These are made using Microsoft PowerPoint. (Notice the color-coded system!)

Math – Keeping It Organized The students then have the same color-coded TEKS goal glued in their notebook. Sheila used Microsoft PowerPoint to make a slide (multiple times) and then printed the slide using “handout” format.

Problem Solving Using Origo The students are assigned to chose 3 problems from a problem solving folder. Inside of the folder are Origo Think Tank Cards. The students have a week to complete the 3 problems.

Weekly Assessments Students turn in brainstretchers (daily challenges) and ORIGO problems weekly and receive a weekly problem- solving grade based on their work. Showing the work involved in solving the problem, as well as the solution, are both components to the grade earned.

Additional Challenges Students have an Exemplar notebook in which they complete a more extensive problem weekly. Math Exemplar Problems are accessible through the Shared Drive.

The End!