There are so many ways to successfully teach multiplying decimals. This skill is introduced in 5th grade, so let’s talk about 4 strategies to make sure this concept is understood beyond the standard algorithm (which I love too). If you want to jump straight into the standard algorithm and call it a day, I think you will most likely feel a little frustration when students struggle ...
10 Low-Prep Probability Activities
As promised, I have returned to present Probability activities I found after scouring the internet. To make this list, the activity had to be straightforward, engaging for students, and have good value. Also, Maneuvering the Middle resources will be on this list because I have used and loved them! Helpful Tools to Support Activities Before we jump into activities, you will want to ...
Creative and Free Incentives for 5th Grade
What motivates a 5th grade student? They are still eager to please, but are developing their own unique tastes and interests. They love adult praise, but also want to be accepted by their peers. And we all know that providing incentives for 5th grade can add up quickly, so when brainstorming this list, I only chose ideas that can be implemented without spending any money and without ...
Teaching Probability in 7th Grade
Probability is a great way to end the school year! There are ample opportunities for hands-on practice, experiments, and the computation is fairly simple. Let’s talk about tips for making the most out of this 7th grade skill. Note: I found so many great probability activities as I was researching that I am going to put together another blog post dedicated to just that, so be sure to ...
10 System of Equations Activities
System of Equations - there is so much to cover that it can feel overwhelming! Let’s keep this substantial math concept light and bright with some fun and engaging activities for your 8th grade and Algebra 1 students. I will be honest, I did not expect all of this goodness to exist out there for Systems of Equations! While I will definitely be linking to our fantastic resources, I am ...
Read Before Teaching Pythagorean Theorem
Let’s talk about my favorite theorem, Pythagorean’s! Though it ranked 4 out of 100 in mathematicians, Paul and Jack Abad’s, list of 100 Greatest Theorems, I know it ranks number 1 in most middle school math teachers’ hearts. Vertical Alignment Before I jump into any topic, I like to see what students already know. Our units are complete with vertical planning, so I don’t have to ...
3 Steps to Mastering Systems of Equations
Is there anything more satisfying than solving a system of equations problem? That might be the nerdiest sentence ever published on this blog, but it is true! I loved learning systems of equations as a student, and I loved teaching it as a teacher. Let’s jump into the 3 methods for mastering systems of equations. This post is full, so be on the lookout for part 2 where we will discuss ...
6 Tips for Math Small Groups
If adding small groups to your math instruction is a goal for the new year, then this post is for you. We are breaking down the 6 most critical tips for implementing a successful small group. Check out the video here. In case you can’t watch the video, here are some tips on how to implement small group instruction. In case you can’t watch the video, here are some tips on how ...
3 Math Review Games to Get Students Moving
Students do so much sitting in a day. During a very long professional development, my principal looked at her watch and said, “We have just hit 75 minutes -- the length of a class period.” I was shocked at how much my body just wanted to escape my chair for a walk or a stretch break. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “Movement increases ...
MTM Team’s Favorite Things
With the Holiday season right around the corner, I compiled a favorite things list from our Maneuvering the Middle team!! You will find that these items are not exclusive to the classroom and would make perfect gifts for your friends and family (or yourself!) 1. Alexa Smart Plugs "These little guys are simple but one of our best purchases lately. They allow you to set up custom ...