August 2015, Vol. 22, Issue 1
An Inside Track: Fostering Mathematical Practices
Kelley Buchheister, Christa Jackson, and Cynthia Taylor
Conversations from a second-grade class demonstrate how teachers can use mathematical games to emphasize key ideas from the Common Core’s Standards for Mathematical Practice.
I admit it. I was the teacher who initially thought games were filler activities that allowed me time to work with students who needed individual help. I viewed this as a win-win situation. My students reviewed concepts while I provided one-on-one instruction. But when I closely observed my students playing games, they weren’t just reviewing. I realized they were using high-level thinking. Now I use games as an instructional tool to develop my students’ mathematical understanding. (Mr. Vaughn, a second-grade teacher)
This article is available to members of NCTM who subscribe to
Teaching Children Mathematics. Don't miss out—join now or upgrade your membership. You may also purchase this article now for online access.
Log In/Create Account
Purchase Article