Student learning expectations begin the moment they walk into our classrooms on the first day of school. As experienced teachers, we all understand the importance of teaching procedures and routines. We set the bar high to stretch our students and help them grow.
One of the expectations I set right off the bat is our warm-up routine. You might know that routine by a different name. Perhaps…do now or bell ringer? No matter what you call it, many of us have some version of that routine.
My students enter the classroom and work on a choice board at the beginning of each class. It is a great way to get them thinking about Math and instantly provide them with some choice. You can grab the template I use for free by clicking here.
Student Learning Experience
I want to create a positive student learning experience for every student who walks through my classroom. I’m sure we all feel that way. But how do you go about it? How do you create a safe space where students can take ownership of their learning? You have to be intentional.
Sometimes, when designing or choosing activities for your students, you must think outside the box. As teachers, we can tend to get in a rut. Doing the same activities year after year because we like them, but forgetting to slow down and honestly reflect on them. What is their purpose? Do they serve that purpose?
Those can be tough questions.
I have never been a big believer in homework. You may disagree with me, but hear me out for a minute.
I spent some time before this school year reflecting on the practice I gave my students in the classroom. I’ll be the first to admit that some of this reflection was prompted by different professional development books I was reading, such as Building Thinking Classrooms.
Through that reflection came a new strategy I wanted to try when it came to student practice.
Check for Student Understanding
Are you sitting down, friend?
Because what I have to say next might ruffle your feathers.
I give my students the answers.
Like I said before, this is something I just started doing this year, so it is still new to me.
But when we are doing in-class practice, I give them the answers.
Why?
Well, I call our practices “Check Your Understanding,” and how can a student check their understanding if they don’t know whether their answer is correct or not?
So I give them the answer, and we have a lot of conversations about showing your thinking and genuinely checking for understanding. Sure, they have the answer, but do they know how to solve a problem and arrive at that answer?
I know I’m only a couple of months into this practice, but I have already seen considerable improvements in my students’ willingness to practice and keep practicing. Perseverance is steadily increasing.
That positive student learning experience that I want to create? It’s happening.
So now I want to know…
Have you ever given your students the answers? If not, is it something you would be willing to try? Let me know in the comments.
Learn More…
Start Allowing Students to Choose in Math
