Month: June 2019

Five tips for incorporating project-based learning into math classes

Although Project-based learning is gaining on-trend in the school system, math has been lagging far behind in introducing the concept in its learning. Authors of “Project-based learning in the Math Classroom: Grades 6-10”, Norfar and Chris Fancher have come up with five classroom-tested strategies that could facilitate PBL in math classes.

Clearing the math myth

While many educators worry about the enormous time taken away by the PBL, Fancher and Norfar insist on making the students explain how they solved the problems. PBL inspires the students to reveal their thinking and support them to solve problems boldly.

Smart projects

The authors encourage teachers to take up projects that involve the possibility of inquiries. The word problems in the textbooks, the community problems at your schools, challenges faced by the ones who use math in their daily lives or other subject educators that require math are the perfect sources for PBL math projects.

Start small

It is always better to start doing small tasks that require inquiry rather than more extensive projects. Solving more minor problems allows students to focus on specific standards at lesser times.

Build effective strategies

The authors encourage the educators to motivate students to work as teams, interview experts or take part in Socratic seminars to discuss math concepts in detail. This activity enhances curiosity and will help the student in taking math concepts seriously.

Help students develop confidence

PBL methods in math can take time to be successful, but it can help students to become successful problem solvers. It is equally essential for educators to be right critics and help them to improve their projects.

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