Skip Counting & Multiplication

Posted in elementary, games, hands on learning, kinesthetic learners, math, multiplication, patterns, skip counting by Mrs. Kirk

It is very important for students to understand the meaning behind multiplication. It is also important for them to master multiplication facts so that they may apply them to other types of math. They need to know the multiples of numbers to simplify fractions, solve large division problems, see patterns, understand algebra, and so much more.
Being fluent with Math is similar to being fluent in Reading. If a student knows his sight words and only has to sound out a few unfamiliar words he is able to read a paragraph or story fluently, and comprehend it. However, if he has to sound out all of the words as he reads, the paragraph or passage will take a long time and fluency will be weaker and comprehension compromised.

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14Dec2015

Markdown Monday

Posted in addition, Christmas, elementary, estimating, games, holidays, math, rounding by Mrs. Kirk

Who doesn’t love a deal? Kelly and Kims’ Kindergarten has a great linky party with resources marked down today through Friday! Check out mine and then head over to Kelly and Kim’s Kindergarten to find the rest!

I am marking down my Holiday Math Bundle. For HALF price you can get a bundle that includes 7 of my Holiday Math resources!

This bundle has worksheets, scavenger hunts, games and word problems! Your students can practice rounding, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, problem solving and balancing equations!

This bundle is normally only $6.00, but from Dec. 14th to Dec 18th it is only $3.00! Yeah!

Find it here:

Teachers Pay Teachers

Not looking for Math? No problem! Head over to Kelly and Kims’ Kindergarten to find other resources marked down today through the 18th!

12Dec2015

Decomposing Fractions in Upper Elementary

Posted in elementary, fractions, guided math, math by Mrs. Kirk

There have been a lot of changes in Math objectives and instruction over the past few years. One change that I wasn’t so sure about at first was “decomposing fractions“. At the time I was teaching third grade and there were already so many fraction concepts to teach. But, let me tell you, after working with my students on decomposing fractions, I see that they understand fractions a lot better than when we just labeled the fractions. Composing and decomposing the fractions helps them to really see how the parts and wholes relate. Now that I am tutoring 4th, 5th and 6th graders, I see how decomposing fractions really helps them to understand the “bigger” things that they do. Continue reading →

5Dec2015

Christmas Math Games

Posted in addition, Christmas, division, elementary, games, guided math, holidays, math by Mrs. Kirk

Looking for some Math Games to keep your students engaged during December?

$holiday math games$

This time of year is a great time to play educational games with your students! They are thinking about the Holidays and the upcoming break, so games with Holiday themes will be sure to engage them! Here are a few of my favorites:

① This division tic tack toe game is a great way for your students to practice division skills while also having fun! Students take turns solving division problems and then finding the answer on the tic tack toe board!

② Your students will love getting out of their seats and solving these equations! The holiday theme makes it more fun!

③ How about this matching game for expanded notation? This is a skill that students need to practice all year long, so this holiday matching game is a perfect review/practice!

④ Who doesn’t love a game of Go Fish? Use these fact family cards as a go fish game, matching game or as a sort!

1Dec2015

Counting Down ‘til the Big Day: Holiday Themed Math

Posted in addition, elementary, hands on learning, math by Mrs. Kirk

I am happy today to be linked up with some great bloggers for Focused On Fifth’s “Unwrapping Holiday Classroom Ideas”. Every day will be a different topic related to the classroom and the Holiday Season!

As a teacher this time of year can be fun, but also a little challenging. I think the main challenge is keeping the students focused on academics when they are so hyped up about the holidays! This is when I think “If you can’t beat them, join them!” … Continue reading →