This article describes a series of two linear measurement activities designed to integrate the related content and processes of Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) into classroom practice using nonstandard units. In the article, nonstandard units refer to same-size, repeatable units (e.g., paper clips, feet) for a specified…

To support students' development of concepts in mathematics, the use of technology is often encouraged (Common Core State Standards Initiative [CCSSI] 2010). Technology can contextualize learning and provide a meaningful setting for mathematical ideas. Most teachers are supportive regarding the use of technology to encourage learning and…

Often, students who solve fraction tasks respond in ways that indicate inadequate conceptual grounding of unit fractions. Many elementary school curricula use folding, partitioning, shading, and naming parts of various wholes to develop children's understanding of unit and then nonunit fractions (e.g., coloring three of four parts of a pizza and…

Designed for a broad audience, including educators, camp directors, afterschool coordinators, and preservice teachers, this investigation aims to help individuals experience mathematics in unconventional and exciting ways by engaging them in the physical activity of building geometric shapes using ropes. Through this engagement, the author…

Describes typical student strategies for counting cubes in cube buildings and explains why these problems are difficult for students. Suggests instructional tasks that can help students develop more powerful ways of thinking about such problems. Lists two action research ideas related to this issue. (ASK)

Emphasizes the importance of promoting discourse and interactions in the classroom. Presents a lesson in which discourse reveals how the teacher helps students learn by constructing their own conceptual understanding of geometric shapes. Illustrates how the teacher facilitates an atmosphere in which students take responsibility for their own…

Describes common misconceptions with decimals and suggests activities that can strengthen connections between decimal concepts and fractions, place value, and physical models, such as the number line. Encourages reasoning, communicating, and problem solving. (TO)

Describes young children's thinking about geometric shapes and discusses implications for teaching and learning. (KHR)

Describes grade-appropriate weekly activities designed to appeal directly to students by giving them open-ended questions. Activities may be worked on individually, in pairs, or in small groups. This particular set of activities focuses on stories from literature involving measurement, earning money, marketing a product, and setting up a…

Examines the levels of geometric reasoning commonly exhibited by primary school students, namely visualization, analysis, and informal deduction. Describes open-ended tasks that can be conducted in small groups or in a whole group setting. (KHR)

Describes using children's and adults' natural curiosity when it comes to bubbles as a perfect vehicle for investigating geometry, data analysis, and measurement. (KHR)

Presents activities providing a cultural journey through history that allow children to understand that many mathematicians have contributed mathematical thoughts and ideas. (KHR)

Demonstrates the consequences of teaching rules without understanding using examples from two 3rd grade children. Suggests alternative instructional strategies. (KHR)

Presents a framework for incorporating classroom strategies that advance children's thinking through eliciting student responses, supporting conceptual understanding, and extending children's mathematical thinking. (KHR)

Investigates how teachers can build student understanding of what constitutes a reasonable estimate. Includes activities to develop quantity and measurement estimation. (KHR)