Each Lesson and Unit Tells a Story
At the heart of ChalkTalk's approach are the narratives that shape each grade's curriculum. Every grade is divided into nine units, each with a captivating narrative that outlines the mathematical journey students will undertake. Each lesson within these units also carries its own narrative, providing context and purpose to the mathematical content.
Understanding Lesson Narratives
Lesson Narratives play a crucial role in guiding educators through the teaching process:
They clarify the mathematical content and its relevance within the learning sequence.
New terms introduced in the lesson are explained to foster understanding.
The role of mathematical practices is highlighted to showcase their application.
Exploring Activities and Their Narratives
Activities within lessons are integral to student engagement and learning. The narratives accompanying these activities serve the following purposes:
Illuminate the mathematical objectives and where the activity fits in the learning sequence.
Define students' roles during the activity.
Offer guidance to teachers on effectively overseeing the activity for optimal learning.
Launch - Work - Synthesize: Three Phases of Classroom Activities
Each classroom activity within ChalkTalk follows a structured approach:
The Launch: During this phase, teachers set the context for the activity and introduce the problem. However, they do not provide the solution outright, as students are encouraged to think independently about how to approach the problem.
Student Work Time: This phase involves students working individually, in pairs, or in small groups. Teachers may provide suggestions for grouping, fostering collaborative learning experiences.
Activity Synthesis: Here, teachers guide students in synthesizing what they've learned from the activity. This time is dedicated to ensuring that all students comprehend the key mathematical concepts and can apply them effectively.
Practice Problems: Reinforcing Learning
Each lesson includes a set of practice problems. Teachers can use these problems for homework, in-class practice, or assessments. These problems not only focus on the current lesson's content but also provide opportunities for distributed practice, which reinforces learning over time.
Are You Ready For More? Extensions for Enrichment
ChalkTalk provides extension problems labeled "Are You Ready for More?" These challenges offer students the chance to delve deeper into grade-level mathematics. These problems may relate to the current topic or draw connections with prior knowledge. They are designed to be optional and can be used as additional enrichment or exploration.
Instructional Routines: Tailoring Instruction to Goals
ChalkTalk offers instructional routines that cater to various learning objectives:
Algebra Talk: Strategies for effective algebra instruction.
Mathematical Language Routines (MLR): Structured routines that aid in teaching and reinforcing mathematical language and concepts.
Group Presentations: Techniques for engaging and productive group presentations.
Notice and Wonder, Number Talk, Poll the Class, Take Turns, Think Pair Share, True or False, Which One Doesn’t Belong?: Diverse routines for interactive learning.
By integrating these routines, educators can create a dynamic and engaging classroom environment that caters to diverse learning needs and goals.
Contact us:
Through the in-app Chat on the ChalkTalk platform
Email us at support@chalktalk.com
Schedule a meeting using this calendar
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