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Essay / Teaching Thinking About a Single Variable Equation Math...
I chose to do a small group math lesson. Around this time of year, eighth graders take standardized tests. One of the things they need to practice is their algebra skills, like solving linear equations. The objective of this lesson was to solve linear equations in one variable. There are various standards covering solving equations, but for these students I have limited it to Equations in One Variable: Solving Linear Equations. The Alabama standard used in this lesson was 8. EE.7.b Solve linear equations with coefficients of rational numbers, including equations whose solutions require developing expressions using the distributive property and collecting similar terms. The materials needed were prepared in advance and included: • Exposure markers • Dry erasers • “When are the equations true?” » • Assessment Worksheets “When are the equations true?” » • Pencils Lesson Plan: 1. Activator: The student will work individually on the assessment task designed to reveal their current understanding and difficulties. The teacher will travel to examine and evaluate the students' work. Next, the teacher will select two students to go to the board (for Sally and Jim) to explain this character work. The teacher will evaluate the student's response and demonstration of their work.2. Teaching/Instruction: Give each student a copy of the assessment task “When are the equations true?” » Give students seven minutes to work individually to answer these questions, without help. Tell students not to worry too much if they don't understand how to solve the equation, but to do their best. In this unit they will work on a similar task which will help them understand better. By the end of this unit, they will be in the middle of a sheet of paper...... Additionally, I will encourage students to relax when a lesson is recorded in the future. Thoughts: I believe everyone should think about what they do to find ways to improve it. I learned a lot from recording this lesson that will help me in the future. I will always continue to congratulate all students for their work. I will always encourage students to ask questions if they don't understand something or how it's done. I appreciate the use of peer helpers when they are available because it gives the student the opportunity to help demonstrate their knowledge when helping another student. I believe it is important to obtain feedback from students at the end of any lesson to assess their acquired knowledge. Additionally, it lets me know who and what areas I need to focus more on to improve my knowledge and skills. I believe that increasing students' knowledge is the goal of teaching.