MPI Day 4: Number

Today was all about number. In particular the importance of Place Value, as well as fractions, decimals, percentages and integers. 

I have included the screenshot below, just as a reminder to myself really. Most of these tools I use within my program, however the toolkit there in the Turbocharge is a useful reference for me. 
 

Choral counting isn't a term I have heard of before, however I have used a hundreds board for similar pattern-based activities. These have always been an oral activity, which of course means they aren't rewindable, however the gist remains the same. Definitely more scope using choral counting for integers, fractions and decimals. I can definitely see the benefit of choral counting so it will be interesting how the kids perceive the activity I have planned. 

I thoroughly enjoyed the sections on fractions, as we are working on these right now for mult/div, which of course made it all the more relevant. I am planning my teaching activity for the homework around the key idea 'Fractions provide context for multiplicative thinking'. (mult/div). I also liked the idea of the chart, to secure and extend vocabulary. I can see how this will be useful both as an activity and as a point of reference once completed. 

The importance of useful manipulatives was apparent today when discussing these, and something I was aware that I do need to build on in my classroom. I think maybe having always taught seniors this wasn't something that was my go-to, however as the needs of my class having become full range, it's something I know I need to build up.

Finally this. This is so important! I think this is the most commonly asked question in the history of a maths teacher. This is so important to the students, and to everyone. The why. The authentic context. Why are we learning this? For this reason...I am looking forward to the session on algebra :))

Sharon