Hands-On Math

Math concepts can be difficult to master, especially in the early years. Hands-on activities help students relate to and conceptualize ideas. In my third placement, I developed a math lesson on estimation that had students engaging with materials and really thinking about strategies for accurate estimating.

To kick off the lesson, I led the whole class through an estimation activity that doubled as a diagnostic assessment. Students gained general information about what estimation is, when/why it is used and the language associated with estimating.

Then we moved into stations where I ran an estimation station with small groups of homogeneous students. I had prepared five different activities that required students to utilize different strategies to estimate quantities.

Students were encouraged to interact with materials in and discuss as a group before recording their individual responses and reasoning. Hints were used sparingly to help groups get into the activity. Questions were posed to students to help extend and clarify their thinking.

This lesson really drummed up interest among students and it was challenging for all learners in the class. Breaking into groups allowed me to differentiate instruction based on student needs. I would definitely use this lesson again, however I would emphasize beginner-level activities and focus on completing fewer tasks very well instead of rushing to try to complete every activity.

Small-group instruction also gave me an excellent opportunity to assess students and determine who might require further instruction to master this curricular outcome.

Estimation Lesson Plan