Pinpoint and reverse math misconceptions with laser-like accuracy
Here’s the middle-grades math resource you’ve been waiting for! Bestselling authors Cheryl Tobey and Carolyn Arline are back with 25 entirely new assessment probes that pinpoint subconcepts within the new Common Core Standards for Mathematics to promote deep learning and expert math instruction. Learn to ask the right questions to uncover common student misconceptions. Get practical instructional ideas that build new and accurate skills–while learning is already underway. It’s all here in this detailed and grade-level specific guide.
Organized by strand, the probes will enable you to:
- Quickly and objectively evaluate common misconceptions around fractions and decimals, linear equations, ratios and percents, statistics, and more
- Systematically address conceptual misunderstandings and procedural mistakes–before they become long-term problems
- Help students better understand areas of difficulty
- Plan targeted instruction that builds on students’ current understandings while addressing areas of struggle
- Master the essential CCSM mathematical processes and proficiencies for Grades 6-8
You’ll find sample student responses, extensive Teacher Notes, and research-based tips and resources. Eliminate the guesswork and join thousands of busy middle-grades teachers who’ve used these easy-to-implement tools to foster solid math proficiency!
‘This book will definitely help mathematics teachers now that the CCSS are becoming such a big part of our teaching.’
—Debra A. Scarpelli, Middle School Mathematics Teacher
RIMLE President, PARCC/CCSS ELC Cadre for Rhode Island, and Adjunct Professor
Table of Content
Preface: Mathematics Assessment ProbesAcknowledgments
About the Authors
Chapter 1. Mathematics Assessment Probes
Questioning Student Understanding: Determine the Key Mathematical Concepts You Want Students to Learn
Uncovering Student Understanding: Use a Probe to Uncover Understandings and Areas of Difficulties
What Is the Structure of a Probe?
QUEST Cycle: Structure of the Supporting Teacher Notes
Beginning to Use the Probes
How to Navigate the Book
Final Chapter 1 Thoughts
Chapter 2. Number System Probes
Estimating Quotients
Division of Fractions
Number Lines
Rational Number Multiplication Estimates
Is It Positive?
Number Card Sort
Chapter 3. Ratio and Proportional Relationship Probes
Best Estimates: Finding Percents
Comparing Measures
Best Estimates: Solving Proportions
Proportional Reasoning Sort
Chapter 4. Expressions and Equations and Functions Probes
Value of the Inequality
Writing Equations
Is It Equivalent?
Linear Equations
Is It a Linear Function?
Chapter 5. Statistics and Probability Probes
Measures of Center and Spread
What′s the Chance?
Scatterplots
Chapter 6. Geometry Probes
Perimeter and Area
Properties of Angles
Finding Volume
Scale
Right Triangles
Heights of Solids
Parallelograms
Chapter 7. Additional Considerations
Establishing Learning Targets
Individual Metacognition and Reflection (The 4Cs)
Giving Student Interviews
Addressing Individual Needs
Promoting Math Talk
Supporting the Mathematical Practices
Sharing Experiences and Promoting Professional Collaboration
Summary
Appendix A. Information on the Standards for Mathematical Practice
Appendix B. Developing Assessment Probes
Appendix C. Action Research Reflection Template: QUEST Cycle
References
Index