When you visit your child’s classroom, you might notice students…
 
Interacting with each other, as well as working independently, just as adults do.

Using many resources-  manipulatives, technology, graphical displays, and measuring devices are useful tools, and students should be learning how and when to use them.
 
Becoming aware of how math is applied to real life problems, not just learning a series
of isolated skills.  As in real life, students will take time to solve multi-step problems.
 
Realizing that many problems have more than one “right” answer.  Students will ex-
plain the different ways they reach a variety of solutions and why they make one choice
over another.
 
Working in groups to discover patterns, representations, and solutions.  They will
be more than “listeners;” they are highly engaged.
 
Learning to communicate mathematical ideas with one another using appropriate terminology and notation.  Student will use accountable talk as a regular part of all lessons. 
 
Working in a physical setting that promotes teamwork, identifies multiple approaches
and insights, and helps students challenge and defend possible solutions

During your visit, the teacher may be…
 
Posing problems that engage students in mathematical thinking and stimulate their
interest in learning.
 
 Moving around the room to observe students as they explore mathematical ideas.
 
Raising questions that encourage students to consider alternative solutions and that challenge deeper thinking about real problems. Guiding and supporting students with leading questions.
 
Providing multiple pathways to learning. 
 
Demonstrating techniques or giving mini-lectures to address misconceptions.
 
Explaining expectations or assessing performances by referring to the Standards
posted in the room.
 
Assisting students as they summarize their learning for the day.
 
Collecting evidence of student learning and achievement.
 
Providing feedback or commentary on student work—orally or in writing.
 
Posting quality student work and indicating how it meets/exceeds Standards.
 
Encouraging students to be responsible for their learning and their behavior.
 
Assessing student understanding with rubrics, games, quizzes, or other forms of
assessment.