Final Reflection

I would like math to play a large role in my classroom. Not only will I do this through specific math lessons and discussions, but I want to ensure I embed math into other subjects and parts if the day and classroom as well. By doing this I will really show my students how important and useful math is in everyday life, not just during "math time." I think this is one of the most important goals forms because it will allow the students to appreciate what they are learning through math, and are it's value from a variety of angles. For example, doing calendar every morning will help the children learn about counting in a meaningful way, as they hear their parents talk about dates etc. also on the calendar they can learn about patterns through this meaningful calendar time too. As I count the children before we go to a special I will ask them to count out loud with me! This will give them practice counting and it is definitely meaningful because they know it's important not to leave anyone behind and it is counting concrete objects. There are many other ways I will try and embed throughout the day. I hope that once I before more familiar with elementary school routines next year I will naturally think of more ways to do this!
The techniques and methods that I envision for math in my classroom are not the traditional ways that I leaned math in school. The main concrete tool for math teaching that I learned from this corse was that children can learn math from each other. Allowing children to explore independently and then having discussions, and in small groups and then having a large group discussion can allow children to hear how and why others are thinking of the concepts a certain way. This can be so meaningful because they explored, discussed, and then they can even have the opportunity to explore again and try a new way of solving a math task if they want! I really think this is a great way for children to take pride in their math work, and not just do it because they "have to." Of course I will have to do formal math assessments, but I will mainly assess to plan the next lessons by observing and engaging with the children as they work through math tasks. This way I will almost be doing a mini student interview, and will truly be able to understand how they are thinking. This way I can appropriately plan extensions or lessons for misconceptions that each hold may have. This is the most authentic way I feel and beat way to teah each child for their personal and individualized needs. I really wants informal assessments to guide my planning and teaching more than the formal assessments. I want to teach each student in the most individualized manner as possible!