prior knowledge


  • Introduction to Intercepts – Mini-lesson with Scaffolded Section for Computing

    Introduction to Intercepts – Mini-lesson with Scaffolded Section for Computing

    Here is a link to the document, with images showing the notes. This is a mini-lesson with the following components. A fill in the blank for writing the lesson objective. A Do now which serves as an initiation to the lesson. The y-intercept can be discussed in the context of buying 0 slices of pizza…


  • Combining Like Terms – From Concrete to Symbolic Form

    Combining Like Terms – From Concrete to Symbolic Form

    Here is a Jamboard (see photo at very bottom for how to make a copy to edit) that presents like terms as visual manipulatives and then eases into the symbolic form – the “mathy” stuff. The following shows each slide as is and how it looks after completion. Start with two groups of common items,…


  • Algebra 1: Concepts and Skills

    Algebra 1: Concepts and Skills

    I had an interesting discussion through a Facebook post recently regarding concepts vs skills. I want to share some information I have gathered regarding this topic. I do so, because there were a substantial number of teachers advocating for skill based learning. I hope to initiate some meaningful discussion. Below left is a photo of…


  • Multiplying by 6, 8, 9

    Multiplying by 6, 8, 9

    If you find this helpful, maybe consider making a small donation to help build an accessible playscape for children with disabilities. I have found success with students using a double skip method for 6s and 8s. The 6s use every other 3 and the 8s, every other 4. Below is how I scaffold the process…


  • Intro to Ratio Tables

    Intro to Ratio Tables

    If you find this helpful, maybe consider making a small donation to help build an accessible playscape for children with disabilities. To introduce ratio tables, I draw upon a relevant prior knowledge for a child. Food, especially pizza is a go to context for me. Use a CRA approach by using manipulatives (concrete), pictures (representational),…


  • Division of Fractions with Cookies

    Division of Fractions with Cookies

    Division of fractions may be one of the most abstract concepts in middle school math. Here is an approach to address the concept using a Google Jamboard (you can make a copy which allows you to edit it), which would be a foundation for the ensuing steps. I will preface this approach by stating the…


  • Division of Fractions with Cookies

    Division of Fractions with Cookies

    Division of fractions may be one of the most abstract concepts in middle school math. Here is an approach to address the concept using a Google Jamboard (you can make a copy which allows you to edit it), which would be a foundation for the ensuing steps. I will preface this approach by stating the…


  • Dividing a Binomial

    Dividing a Binomial

    If you have taught algebra, you have likely experienced this error. We know many students will make this type of error and we can help many students avoid it by being proactive. Below are excerpts from a Google Jamboard that can be used to unpack the underlying concept of the division or simplifying shown above.…


  • Dividing a Binomial

    Dividing a Binomial

    If you have taught algebra, you have likely experienced this error. We know many students will make this type of error and we can help many students avoid it by being proactive. Below are excerpts from a Google Jamboard that can be used to unpack the underlying concept of the division or simplifying shown above.…


  • Intro to Constant of Proportionality Using Hourly Pay

    Intro to Constant of Proportionality Using Hourly Pay

    An effective instructional strategy is to make the new math topic meaningful. A fellow Facebook group member asked about teaching the topic constant of proportionality. My suggestion is to use hourly wages as an introduction. I created a handout that starts with students finding a job with an hourly pay stated and then completing a…