Topic: Steve Leinwand

Understanding what the whole is, what the parts are, how they are related, and what might be missing in a particular problem are all critical aspects of numerical fluency.

There are six identifiable processes that support the development of numerical fluency. these processes are not unique to numerical fluency−in fact, the same processes are essential for the development of spatial sense, algebraic reasoning, and other big ideas in mathematics.

We believe that teachers must embrace nine pivotal understandings to support the development of numerical fluency in all students.

For change to stick, we need to create a school culture focused on the purposeful development of numerical fluency as an integral part of K–5 mathematics in every classroom and among all students regardless of labels, languages, or learning needs.

In their new book, Developing Numerical Fluency, Patsy and Steve present what they call pivotal understandings, and put an emphasis on a school-wide culture that values and nurtures numerical fluency.

When mathematics lessons are systematically planned and implemented with these six processes at the forefront, teachers maximize the chances of all students becoming numerically fluent.

There is an unacceptable chasm between traditional mathematics instruction, that rarely works for more than one-third on our students, and this kind of mathematics instruction, that truly empowers nearly all students.

This month we look at ways to infuse concepts of community in the math classroom to support confidence and participation.

What Makes Math Intimidating for Teachers?

Why Math Can't Simply Stop at an Answer

Teacher Appreciation: Steve Leinwand On His Formative Teachers

SMP #5: Use Appropriate Tools Strategically

SMP #4: Model with Mathematics

SMP #3: Construct Viable Arguments and Critique the Reasoning of Others

If we encourage students to reason quantitatively (attending to the relationships between the numbers and using properties flexibly), they can abstract to general principles that can help solve other seemingly unrelated problems

SMP #1: Make Sense of Problems and Persevere in Solving Them

Five Reflections On Math Education From Steve Leinwand

An Interview With Author Steve Leinwand: Part 2