Fourth Graders Learn Multiple Strategies for Solving Complex Math Problems

In math, fourth graders have been working through multiple-digit multiplication problems. In learning to solve these complex problems, fourth graders are practicing using multiple strategies that will help them calculate the answer: partial product, model, distributive property, and algorithm. Groups of three or four students worked together to solve a complex word problem using at least three (and were challenged to use all four) of the strategies to calculate the answers. “After all of the groups were done, we did a gallery walk so students could see how others solved the problems,” explains teacher Valerie Welsh. “It’s really great for them to see how others solve problems because that method might click for them. There were many ‘ah-ha’ moments during the gallery walk.”

 

Solving math problems in groups using different methods helps students learn from one another. Adds Ms. Welsh, “Kids are really good teachers to their peers, and the more exposure they get to the different strategies the more sense it will make to them.” MORE PHOTOS