Browse best practices

Algebraic thinking in elementary school

This online course will enable participants to learn how to include opportunities in the upper elementary curriculum for children to think about basic algebraic concepts, and to appreciate the importance of algebraic thinking.

Format: article/online course

Algebraic thinking in elementary school: Online course syllabus

This workshop will enable participants to learn how to include opportunities in the upper elementary curriculum for children to think about basic algebraic concepts, and to appreciate the importance of algebraic thinking.

Format: syllabus

Assessing the learning process

In Math for multiple intelligences, page 3

Assessment, like instruction, needs to be geared toward various learning styles, and teachers can create rubrics for ongoing assessment that keep a formal daily record of what students are learning.

Format: article

By Gretchen Buher and David Walbert.

CareerStart lessons: Grade eight

This collection of lessons aligns the eighth grade curriculum in math, science, English language arts, and social studies with potential career opportunities.

Format: (multiple pages)

Grouping skills for mastery

In Math for multiple intelligences, page 4

Thematic planning helps relate mathematics to students' lives.

Format: article

By Gretchen Buher.

Helping parents understand

In Math for multiple intelligences, page 5

The more ongoing, positive communication you have with parents, the more they'll be willing to work with you.

Format: article

By Gretchen Buher.

Making small groups work

In Math for multiple intelligences, page 2

For students to work effectively in small groups, a teacher needs not only to set rules but to build a sense of community and teamwork within the basic structure the rules provide.

Format: article

By Gretchen Buher.As told to David Walbert.

Math for multiple intelligences

In Math for multiple intelligences, page 1

How a middle-school math teacher realized she was boring and jump-started her career — and her students.

Format: article

By Gretchen Buher.

Math for multiple intelligences

How a middle-school math teacher realized she was boring and jump-started her career — and her students — by using thematic planning, emphasizing problem solving, and teaching to multiple intelligences.

Format: series (multiple pages)

Meaningful mathematics: using balances for problem solving

Using balances to represent equations forces students to find their own meaning in mathematical problems.

By Grayson Wheatley and George E. Abshire.

Not your mother's math teacher

North Carolina's 2001–2002 Teacher of the Year, Carmen Wilson, talks about real-world math and teachers' roles as professionals.

Format: article

By David Walbert.

Resources on the web

NCDigIns

Aligned North Carolina 2003 Mathematics Standard Course of Study and the Common core Standards, the NCDigIns formative assessment diagnostic tool can help students become proficient in math. A team of North Carolina... (Learn more)

Format: website

Provided by: North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

On-Math - Online Journal of School Mathematics

These peer-reviewed short articles are published for all grade level educators. The articles are not just textual in nature, but include multimedia interactives as well as audio and video clips. The purpose is to be immersed in the subject at hand. Full... (Learn more)

Format: website

Provided by: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

Student Explorations in Mathematics (formerly known as Student Math Notes)

Published five times a year, Student Math Notes is “intended as a resource for grades 5-10 students, teachers, and teacher educators. Each issue develops a single mathematical theme or concept in such a way that fifth grade students can understand... (Learn more)

Format: website

Provided by: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

Wolfram MathWorld

This site from the makers of Mathematica provides clear and readable mathematical resources for students and educators. (Learn more)

Format: website/general

Provided by: Wolfram Research