Episode 44: Playing in the Math Sandbox - An Interview with Kim and Sara

Desiree Harrison 0:00

Do you ever feel like there just isn’t enough time to let kids play with math? To let them explore the meaning of math word problems before solving them? Today’s guests talk all about a metaphorical sandbox that gives children the space and time to play, explore, engage, represent, and translate these problems into something meaningful to them. We’ll also learn about operational sense, using five different mathematical representations, and strategies to bring back to your teaching colleagues. One definition to note is about Bare number problems. These involve equations without context, such as solving 3 + 5 or 4 x 6. Now get ready to dig into the Mathematizing Sandbox.

Desiree Harrison 1:29

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Today on the podcast, we have two of the authors of the book series, Mathematize It! Going Beyond Key Words to Make Sense of Word Problems. We are focusing on the Grades K-2 of the book series. Welcome to Kids Math Talk!

Sara Delano Moore 1:50

Thanks so much! I'm Sara Delano Moore. In my day job in my regular work, I'm vice president of research and content at Origo Education. I live in Kent, Ohio. And I really focus on my thinking about mathematics and children on the idea of how children use multiple representations. And, especially, manipulatives to represent their work. How do we help kids make their thinking clear, even when they don't have the formal notation to do that. I also am a big fan of picture books. Kim...

Kim Morrow-Leong 2:21

Hi! I'm Kim Morrow-Leong. I'm in Fairfax, Virginia. I'm a former 5th grade teacher and a middle school teacher, and also a K-8 coach. Currently, I'm a content manager at the Math Learning Center. I'm interested in how teachers engage with what students are doing. How they make sense of what students' thinking is and then make instructional decisions afterward. 2:47

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