There are some very strong opinions when it comes to how to teach greater than, less than, and equal. And even stronger opinions when we start talking about greater than and less than signs. The biggest issue is that too often the ... Read More
Comparing Numbers: Understanding More, Less, and Equal
I didn't always appreciate how students built an understanding of comparing numbers. When I started teaching, I got to the unit where students began looking at pictures of two amounts and assumed that because they could count, they ... Read More
What is Number Sense? The Key to Strong Math Skills
Have you ever heard the term “number sense” and wondered what it meant? In simple terms, number sense is an essential part of developing strong math skills. Number sense is an umbrella term to describe our understanding of numbers and ... Read More
FREE Number Talks
First grade teachers, access 20 FREE Number Talk Prompts to enhance your place value unit and get your students engaged in conversation.
3 Easy Word Ladders Activities for Your Classroom
I'm excited to dive into word ladders with you. We will take a close look at how word ladders are such a powerful tool in our literacy instruction. We are also going to look at three easy ways to differentiate word ladders in your ... Read More
5 Favorite Fraction Manipulatives and Easy Ways to Use Them
All students benefit from fraction manipulatives. Students need to see and feel how fractions work. And, while fractions are everywhere -- hello pizza parlors! -- students need regular practice with fraction manipulatives that are ... Read More
Counting By 10s: Where most students get stuck and knowing exactly how to help
Let's talk about counting by 10s! It's an essential skill and one that helps build an early understanding of place value. However, it's also a skill that is often taught before a student is ready. Students need to understand several ... Read More
