Instructional+Shift+04

Chapter 5: Language-Rich Classes

 * What should we see in an effective mathematics classroom?**

//-An ongoing emphasis on the use and meaning of mathematical terms, including their definitions and their connections to real-world entities and/or pictures//


 * Lead a department/team discussion focused on responding to the following questions:
 * // In everyday practice, when and how are mathematical vocabulary and notation addressed? //
 * //What strategies do you use to help students develop and retain an understanding of mathematical terms?//

//-Student and teacher explanations that make frequent and precise use of mathematical terms, vocabulary, and notation//


 * Introduce an activity through the use of a “brain dump” (p. 27). //In what ways does this activity promote a language-rich discussion?//

//-An extensive use of word walls that capture the key terms and vocabulary with pictures when appropriate and in English as well as Spanish when appropriate//


 * // In what ways are word walls being used in your classroom? How can a word wall be used effectively? //
 * Have students complete the Frayer Model for a mathematical term or idea recently discussed. To see an example, click on the following document:
 * Have students keep and update a word wall in notebook. Periodically have students visit the wall and explain key terms. Have students highlight any terms they cannot fully describe in their own words.