Math Challenges Sixth Graders to “Go Beyond the Algorithms”

To prepare for their first cumulative chapter test of middle school, sixth graders are playing math games that help them synthesize multiple skills and competencies. “Many of the problems in this test require students to go beyond the algorithms and rules that they have learned so far and demonstrate their conceptual understanding," explains teacher Cam Yuen-Shore. "These open-ended games are a great way to naturally differentiate a classroom activity. If students are at different levels of readiness for a concept or skill, they can both participate in a well-designed game.” One game students are playing involves fractions where students roll a die and slot those rolled numbers in a fraction multiplication problem with a goal percentage in mind (see sample here). Similarly, instead of practicing negative and positive integer problems and how they relate to the commutative property, students roll special negative and positive integer dice and think about different expressions they can create (see sample here). Students will surely be well prepared for their upcoming math test! MORE PHOTOS