This week we are warming up in math class by reviewing multi-digit multiplication. Students come to sixth grade with a variety of ways to solve multiplication problems. It's great that kids can break numbers apart and put them back together in different ways. It shows good number sense and that's important. In sixth grade we build on this knowledge and show them the most efficient strategies to solve problems. This week the students are learning the traditional algorithm for multi-digit multiplication. Simply put, it's probably the way you were taught how to solve the problem. Ask you child to show you!
Today we went over how to multiply a 2-6 digit number by one digit number. Once kids were shown the different methods side-by-side and could see how and why they worked, most quickly changed over to the standard algorithm. My Block B class didn't want to stop practicing on whiteboards today. They said they were having fun. Gasp! My Block A and C classes were asking to start multiplying by two digit factors (that's tomorrow). Most said they loved the way they were shown today and will never go back to the other ways while some still love their lattice method. Students don't HAVE to make the switch as long as they are efficient and accurate with their strategy.
Students will have some multiplication problems on their weekly quiz this week.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Fractions, Mixed Numbers
The students have been working on fractions & mixed numbers for the last couple weeks. They took the assessment on how to read, order, use, represent, and simplify fractions & mixed numbers before the Thanksgiving break. Now they are learning how to add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions & mixed numbers. We've been adding and subtracting fractions this week. Next week we'll work on adding and subtracting mixed numbers. These can be tough for some students because there are multiple steps to solving some problems. I will be staying after school next Thursday to help any student who wants some extra practice or help. The following week we will learn how to multiply and divide. I was hoping to finish fractions before winter break but we may need to continue work with them when we get back. I want to make sure the students have enough practice with word problems too. Time will tell.