Just Add Markers-- A Dry Erase Table for Mastering Math
My students need one rectangular classroom table with a dry erase top so that they may work cooperatively on math computational and problem-solving skills.
My fifth grade math students work hard in the classroom to master difficult fifth grade math standards. Many have never experienced a guided math classroom and, as a result, still struggle with concepts introduced in lower grades. What they do show me everyday is their desire for learning math in my flexible classroom and their utter joy when they understand and master a new skill! They are part of a fifth grade class that is comprised of approximately 250 students with varied backgrounds and diverse abilities. Unfortunately, we are a mostly rural, Title I school, with over 50% of our students qualifying for free or reduced lunches. I know that the guidance that I offer them daily in math class may be the difference in their future math success and That our small group time is essential to building new understandings.
My students all want opportunities to grow as math learners and a classroom environment that empowers them to practice new skills and to problem solve while working and interacting cooperatively with others.
My Project
Grade 5 Math is filled with many computational and problem-solving skills to learn. In my classroom, I utilize guided math groups to introduce, teach, and assess student progress toward concept mastery. In the past, I utilized individual dry erase boards for students to practice their skills, but transitions were time consuming as students gathered, then later put up their supplies. Due to budgetary considerations, I had no funds to purchase a rectangular dry erase table so this summer, I resurfaced my group table with white shower board and began this school year with a home engineered dry erase table.
Dry erase classroom tables allow math students to work cooperatively to solve problems and to increase their computational skills.
Many struggling students need the paper-free larger format to practice new skills. Teachers and peer tutors can easily observe student work and help correct misconceptions and other errors. By adding a second dry erase table to my math classroom, I hope to continue my guided math format with one teacher-led group at one and a student-led group at the other.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Goben and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
