Today we used Student Response Dials during our center time groups! These neat dials allow the kids to spin to a certain color to answer their question rather than using boring old paper and pencil or answering me verbally!
First, we reviewed four of our eight math fact strategies. We discussed that any math problem with the number 0 in it (either +0 or -0) would be best solved using the 'zero strategy'. Any math problem with two identical numbers in it when adding would be best solved using the 'doubles' strategy. If a math problem asked the learner to +1 or -1, the 'plus 1 or minus 1' strategy would be best used to solve it. Finally, if an addition math problem had a 10 along with a single digit number in it, the 'ten strategy' would be the best choice. (take off the 0 and put the single digit in that spot).
Then, I would write a math problem on a white board and the kids would hide the dial in their laps to decide what strategy (color) would be the best choice to figure out the problem. I did not even want the answer to the problem - just the strategy best used to figure it out! When everyone was ready, they would all show their dial at once. It gave me immediate feedback as to who knew the correct strategy to use and who needed more guidance. Not only did they have to provide the color/answer, but I asked for an explanation as to WHY they chose that color/strategy to figure it out. Explaining your thinking helps retention of what you are learning, plus it helps peers to understand when offered in kid-friendly language!
We will use the dials again for the other four strategies as well this week. Later this week, the children will take a district-wide assessment to prove their knowledge of the strategies. Look for that to come home in their Friday Folders very soon!
Izzy, Mecciah, Dakota, Abby and Donal
Isaac, David, Kaitlyn, Jackson, Gabe, Lily and Kayden
Paul, Payton, Brady, Carly, Kiel, Kierra, and Abigail
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