When I am done, I put my hands on my head. Then I wait a little bit to allow some of the others to finish.
I ask, “Who found the correct answer?” Some raise their hand.
I ask, “Who beat me?” Some raise their hand.
Sometimes I mix up the order or ask who got it wrong just to make sure they are listening.
Then, I ask, “Who has a question?” This gives the kids a chance to ask why my answer is different than theirs if they don’t understand their mistake.
I think you could use this at any age. The kids take great satisfaction in beating me. The advanced students clearly have made their own goal of finishing before I begin.
Sometimes, if the problem is really easy, I give them less than a ten second head start.
It is a simple concept, but it keeps the students on task and motivated despite the repetative nature of math.
I’d love to hear if it works for you or if you do something similar.
Wendy P says
I love it! I do something similar with my 4th & 5th graders. I have them work the problem out with dry erase baords & markers. I write the problem on the smartboard. Then I tell them who can beat the teacher, giving them a head start. Then I pick up my pencil to complete the problem on a small piece of paper in my hand and when I am done I tell them I am done. I then walk around looking at those that are still working, trying to stop & help those that are struggling. When they finish the problem they flip over the dry erase board & do not show me until everyone is done. Then I yell, "Show me the money!" The entire class flips their boards up for me to see if they got it right or wrong. Whatever it takes to keep them motivated:)
luckeyfrog says
Oh, I love this. What a great way to differentiate and give them a chance to try the example problems, but also give those who've got it a chance to prove it!
Jenny
Luckeyfrog's Lilypad