Multiply 2 digit numbers using 3 strategies. Once you’ve introduced the strategies, students can choose a method that works for their learning style. The following photos come from a PowerPoint I made to help introduce the methods. Traditional Algorithm Most adults are familiar with the traditional method for multiplying multi-digit numbers. Actually, this method is […]


Memorize is NOT a Bad Word
“Students shouldn’t be encouraged to memorize facts. They should be using strategies.” Everytime I go to a training, someone is saying this. As an intervention teacher who has worked with 6th graders who are adding 5 +3 with their fingers still, it is frustrating. The explanaition is that as we teach students strategies for facts, […]


Algebraic Thinking through Fact Families
Fact families are students first introduction to algebraic thinking. Let’s take a look at some fun effective strategies for fact families. My first few years teaching was in first grade. I remember looking at the state standards and smiling when I saw algebra. Algebra? In first grade? Really? When I thought algebra, I thought of […]


Math Fact Fluency
Today, I’m linking up for the first time with Teaching Tribune for Two for Tuesday. This year I worked with a group of first graders that were struggling to memorize their facts. They were struggling in their homeroom classes and were discouraged. They needed the facts broken down into small manageable chunks. The first day […]


Monday Made It: Photo Booth Props and a FREEBIE
As summer time is slipping away, I’m find myself quite busy. I’m excited to link up with Tara for today’s Monday Made It. My hubby helped me out with my Monday Made It because he is excited that his beautiful daughter is getting married. We are both so happy for them. We have a year, […]

