Mathematics Strategies

Comparison Words

Comparison Words is a strategy for identifying English words that compare or contrast nouns. Words like fewer, greater, less than, equal to, etc, are important for students to understand when in Math lessons. These words build the base for understanding math problems listed in English. These building blocks are essential for lower level English fluency students.

Steps:

1. Identify comparison words

2. Create visual aid

3. Practice word problems using comparison words

4. Take visual aid away and practice problems

5. Assess understanding

MAFS.912.A-REI.1.1

Explain each step in solving a simple equation as following from the equality of numbers asserted at the previous step, starting from the assumption that the original equation has a solution. Construct a viable argument to justify a solution method.

ELD.K12.ELL.MA.1

English language learners communicate information, ideas and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics.

Language Framework Planning

Language Framework Planning is a strategy that helps students identify key academic language, and use it to understand content. Understanding the key terms in Math helps students to develop the language skills necessary to attack content specific goals. This can help with proofs and comparison through several content specific areas. 

Steps:

1. Identify and model problem structures

2. Create vocabulary chart

3. Plan instructional sequence

4. Assign work

5. Assess student understanding

MAFS.912.A-CED.1.4

Rearrange formulas to highlight a quantity of interest, using the same reasoning as in solving equations.

ELD.K12.ELL.MA.1

English language learners communicate information, ideas and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics.

Cooperative Learning

Cooperative Learning is a strategy that is used for students working together to accomplish a task. This strategy can be useful in the Math classroom by allowing ELL students to collaborate with English speaking students to accomplish homework problems. Applying both BICS and CALPS language skills in the lesson helps ELL students to develop both sides of the Math specific academic vocabulary, and allowing help for accomplishing tasks. Proving equations and finding a solution method are perfect tasks for this strategy

Steps:

1. Assign heterogeneous groups and build a team

2. Assign roles within groups

3. Assign task

4. Ensure full participation

5. Have groups report to class

6. Debrief and examine the group process

MAFS.912.A-REI.1.1

Explain each step in solving a simple equation as following from the equality of numbers asserted at the previous step, starting from the assumption that the original equation has a solution. Construct a viable argument to justify a solution method.

ELD.K12.ELL.MA.1

English language learners communicate information, ideas and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics.

Learning Strategy Instruction

Learning Strategy Instruction is a strategy that teaches students skills for self help and methods for better learning. Included in this area is note taking, using prior knowledge, summarizing, and imagery. These are all very effective in the Math subject area, as students will need to self help while deducing and rationalizing problems. Proving that data is true is a key part of math, and these strategies can help students to do just that.

Steps:

1. Match strategies and curriculum

2. Reflect on learning task approach

3. Model strategies

4. Practice strategies

5. Make visuals

6. Discuss strategy use

7. Assess progress

MAFS.912.G-GMD.2.4

Identify the shapes of two-dimensional cross-sections of three-dimensional objects, and identify three-dimensional objects generated by rotations of two-dimensional objects.

ELD.K12.ELL.MA.1

English language learners communicate information, ideas and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics.

Manipulative Strategies

Manipulative Strategies is a strategy for using objects that students can touch and manipulate to explain content material. This is especially helpful in Math classrooms, for students to physically interact with shapes and counting methods. Fractions, shapes, patters, and measurements are all important parts of the content area, and students have the opportunity to interact with all of these manipulatives to deepen understanding.

Steps:

1. Identify concepts to be taught and ways of representation

2. Demonstrate and explain

3. Provide guided practice

4. Give students time for practice

5. Review

6. Assess comprehension

MAFS.912.G-C.1.1

Prove that all circles are similar.

ELD.K12.ELL.MA.1

English language learners communicate information, ideas and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics.

Reference:Herrell, A. L., Jordan, M., & Herrell, A. L. (2012). 50 strategies for teaching English language learners. Boston: Pearson.