Math Perspectives Teacher Development Center (2007). Number talks. Retrieved from
Number Talks is an informational text produced by Math Perspectives Teacher Development Center (2007). As its introduction indicates, this text answers the question, what is a number talk, by outlining four main components: goals, computational fluency, format, and teacher role (Math Perspectives, 2007). Math Perspectives (2007) states, “The primary goal of number talks is computational fluency” (p.1 ). The article goes on to discuss how students develop computational fluency, what it means to be computationally fluent and the mathematical understanding an individual would have if he/she were computationally fluent. Additionally this article provides a skeletal framework for number talks as well as a vision of the teacher as a facilitator of mathematical discussion rather than giver of information.
Number Talks addresses some big ideas related to teaching and learning mathematics. These are the same big ideas that I believe will come to light as I support teachers to implement number talks. As such, the article influenced me to compose thoughtful questions that will allow me to better understand the teacher’s belief system around math. The better I understand her beliefs the more thoughtful I can be in my coaching processes. Math Perspectives states, “A number talk is a powerful tool for helping students develop computational fluency because the expectation is that they will use number relationships and the structures of numbers to add, subtract, multiply and divide” (2007 para. 1). Why is computational fluency important? What does computational fluency allow students to do? As an adult learner what is your comfort level with number relationships? Are you able to mental compute efficiently and accurately? The authors go on to state, “Children develop computational fluency while thinking and reasoning like mathematicians (2007 para. 3)”. What are the qualities of a mathematician? What does mathematical thinking and reasoning look and sound like? What do students need in order to use their thinking and reasoning skills?
This is a meaningful lit review, Morgan, and I think the fact hat you’re addressing a teacher’s understanding of his/her own computational fluency first is inspired.
ReplyDeleteYour personal connections make this lit review compelling to read. By the way, would this be a good article for teachers to read? Will you have teachers read any articles?