For the love of math!

As many of you know, fifth grade math is pretty challenging. Add on top of the inherent challenge that we are also using a brand new curriculum this year and you can understand it is quite daunting at times. I'm not ashamed to admit that I have been stumped by some problems we've
encountered.
Despite this high level of challenge, the students remain excited about learning and I dare say we are having fun in math class! I am reading a book called 'What's Your Math Problem?' about teaching students how to be effective problem solvers. In simple terms, research shows that children grow as problem solvers when they are faced with problems that present novel scenarios where they can apply their math skills. Challenge is good, however uncomfortable it may be.
And, yes, we have been challenged, but I see the kids learning and growing with this challenge even if they don't always come up with the perfect right answer.
With that said, I leave you with a picture of Safiyah's creation that she wore to school today with all of our phrases that pay in class: "Math is not a race, go at your own pace," "When in doubt, draw it out," and, "For your own protection, follow directions."
For the love of math,
Ms. Stephens