Mara

Each day I have my first graders do a math choice board. Each child will get to pick 2 of 4 possible math problems. I indicate harder problems using a star, easier ones with a happy face. In order to help make sense of what each child gives me I have developed this generic handout. On it there is space for in depth thinking to be displayed, a math sentence and the answer. Below I have included a scoring section to make life easier.

Each day I have my students do a math choice board. Each child will get to pick 2 of 4 possible math problems. I indicate harder problems using a star, easier ones with a happy face. In order to help make sense of what each child gives me I have developed this generic handout. On it there is space for in depth thinking to be displayed, a math sentence and the answer.

This activity can be given to the above level kids that finish early. After teaching that addends produce a sum, you can have kids use the sum to find addends. The workmat is included for those tactile learners.

Use these problems along with the problem solving template that I have created. It makes for easy and accurate assessments. Be sure to review/ reteach/ teach the importance of identifying the whole or the part based on information. This will help them with algebraic thinking crucial to common core.