Hi! I'm Lara and I didn't use to be a math person. Through a winding series of events, I have developed a passion for early elementary mathematics! Learn about it in this episode and stay tuned for future episodes about developing number sense in math!
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In this episode, we explore how simple materials—like beads—can transform your math centers. Beads aren’t just colorful and fun; they’re powerful tools for counting collections, building fine motor skills, and creating patterns. We’ll dive into hands-on activities like Spin and Thread, DIY number racks, and engaging rekenrek games that help students strengthen their number sense and counting strategies. Whether you’re looking for easy prep ideas or creative ways to switch up your manipulatives, this episode is packed with practical tips you can use tomorrow. Tune in and bring new life to your math lessons! Helpful Links: Spin and Slide Spin and Thread Pick Build Cover Rekenrek Mini Bundle Blog Post Have a topic you want me to discuss? Fill out the Google Form! Let's Connect! Instagram Website YouTube Channel
In this quick episode, we are diving into 3 unconventional ways to increase engagement in math class! Have a topic you want me to discuss? Fill out the Google Form! Helpful Links Spin and Thread Graphing Project Addition and Subtraction Lessons Let's Connect! Instagram Website YouTube Channel
Today's episode comes from a listener email about getting buy-in from other teachers to give BTC a try! Have a topic you want me to discuss? Fill out the Google Form! Helpful Links K Task Bundle 1st Grade Task Bundle 2nd Grade Task Bundle Let's Connect! Email me! lara@makingnumbersensemakesense.com Instagram Website YouTube Channel
Transforming your classroom into a Building Thinking Classroom is an exciting journey—but when it comes to consolidating learning and reflecting on problem-solving tasks, it can feel tricky with younger students. Between stamina struggles, time constraints, and building those metacognitive skills, what’s a teacher to do? In this episode, we’re tackling those challenges with fun and effective strategies to wrap up your thinking tasks: 🌶️ Check Your Understanding Questions Use “mild,” “medium,” and “spicy” extension questions to give students a choice and push their thinking a little further. 🎲 Games for Consolidation Turn reflection time into play with quick, themed games that tie into your tasks and can double as math centers later! 📝 Meaningful Notes Help students record their learning in creative ways—like fill-in-the-blanks, circling items, or drawing—so they can revisit important strategies and takeaways later. 💡 The 4-Quadrant Method Break down strategies and reflections into bite-sized pieces for young learners to understand and remember. Whether it’s through playful games, choice-driven questions, or creative note-taking, these approaches will keep your students engaged and make math reflection meaningful and manageable. Links & Resources: 👉 Blog Post 👉 Grab Kindergarten, 1st Grade, or 2nd Grade Thinking Task Bundles here! Let's Connect! Instagram Website YouTube Channel Let’s make consolidation time just as exciting as problem-solving! 🎉
In this episode, we dive into how AI tools like ChatGPT can support teachers in crafting creative and engaging math tasks for Kindergarten, 1st-grade, and 2nd-grade students. While AI can’t replace the human magic you bring to your classroom, it can be a great brainstorming partner to help spark ideas, refine tasks, and create meaningful learning experiences. 🔑 Key Takeaways: The Power of Specific PromptsA generic prompt like “Give me math tasks for counting” might not get the best results. Instead, provide details like grade level, standards, goals, and even a story context. Specificity helps AI provide deeper, more tailored responses. Ask for VariationsEncourage creativity by requesting multiple examples or exploring specific parts of a task. Need thin-slicing? AI can help you design tasks with increasing levels of difficulty, ensuring they meet your learning objectives. Engagement MattersBeyond math concepts, you can ask AI for fun and creative ideas, like coming up with 10 names for a fictional business that include puns or alliteration to match your theme. Adding a playful twist makes tasks more enjoyable for students! Check the WorkWhile AI can do a lot, it’s not perfect. Always double-check tasks for accuracy, especially as the math becomes more advanced or nuanced. Use AI as a starting point but refine the details yourself to ensure they’re just right for your students. 💡 Final Thoughts: AI isn’t magic—it’s a tool. It won’t create slides, choose the perfect context, or capture your students’ unique needs. What turns an idea into a task your students love is you. Your creativity, expertise, and connection to your class are what make learning truly come alive. 📚 Looking for Pre-Made Thinking Tasks? Check out our Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade bundles for ready-to-use ideas tailored to Building Thinking Classrooms! ✨ Join the Conversation: Have you used AI to create math tasks? Share your experiences and tips with us on Instagram or lara@makingnumbersensemakesense.com Have a topic you want me to discuss? Fill out the Google Form!