Visit ILLUMINATIONS...a Math Site for PK - 12 Mathematics Ideas

While researching best practices in mathematics just a few minutes ago, I stumbled upon another amazing resource!  Illuminations is a PK-12 math website chock full of amazing activities, lessons, etc. and it is sponsored by the NCTM.  While there is no direct mention of the Common Core, this is still 'good math' for great teachers.

Take, for instance, 2-digit multiplication in grades 3-5.  We are being encouraged to STOP teaching the algorithms first, and, instead, teach with a model.  This is not 'new' math.  It is simply a more concrete way to solve a very abstract number sentence.  In the lesson link below, students:

• decompose 2-digit numbers
• model area representations using the distributive property and partial product arrays
• align paper-and-pencil calculations with the arrays. 

The lessons provide conceptual understanding of what occurs in a 2-digit multiplication problem. Partial product models serve as transitions to understanding the standard multiplication algorithm.  Take a look at the lesson, Multiply and Conquer.  It really does make sense if you give it a chance.

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics is a public voice of mathematics education, providing vision, leadership, and professional development to support teachers in ensuring mathematics learning of the highest quality for all students. With 100,000 members and 250 affiliates, NCTM is the world’s largest organization dedicated to improving math education in preK‑12.

Illuminations is designed to:

• Provide standards-based resources that improve the teaching and learning of mathematics for all students. 
• Provide materials that illuminate the vision for school mathematics set forth in 
• Principles and Standards for School Mathematics
• Curriculum Focal Points for Prekindergarten through Grade 8 Mathematics
• Focus in High School Mathematics: Reasoning and Sense Making.

Illuminations is part of the prestigious Verizon Thinkfinity program.

Have fun checking out this site.  I would welcome comments to this post regarding your thoughts on this site!

Enjoy the day!

Kate