Having students explain their work in math offers a range of cognitive, academic and social benefits. Our fifth-grade mathematicians in Ms. Griner's classroom participated in this very valuable activity during their Math lesson last week.
The students explained how they solved word problems involving rounding decimals with each student solving the posed problem a bit differently but, ultimately, each of them solved the problem correctly.
This practice encourages conceptual learning, promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, increases positive communication skills, collaboration and peer learning. By incorporating these practices into our math instruction, we are enhancing students' mathematical abilities but also helping our students develop essential skills for lifelong learning.
