DMiC Session 2

In this afternoon’s session Dr. Hunt wanted the teachers to share whatt we have being trialling in our classroom.

What are we doing in our maths lessons?

What’s working, what’s problematic?

Here are some key points of Dr.Hunt’s response to our discussions.

-Teachers are at the stage of gathering evidence. When we are testing children we should also be noticing what they can do and apply in a problem.

-We should be asking children to repeat other children’s idea, encourage participation with others.  Children have to justify what they said for example: "Why did you say this?”

-Getting children to talk more, listening, focusing, paying attention.

-You are arguing with that idea, disagree with that thinking not with your partner.

-Explicit talking:  I disagree with this idea because……

(That’s a good thing to do because you’re learning.)

-When children are recording their thinking, don’t draw pretty pictures.

Social grouping and strength grouping should be carefully constructed. Groups of four (or 2 with young children.)

 -First launch the problem….

The problem can be in written format and then supported by digital sound byte. One challenging task (if any student can solve it on their own it is not challenging enough)

Encourage recording and multiple representations.