Get them playing! Research shows that playing ST Math results in increased test scores and a better attitude toward math.
Sometimes your student may have difficulty with a puzzle. If they've tried and tried, you can ask some questions to help them figure it out for themselves using the Learning Cycle. If you'd like to experience it for yourself, go to bit.ly/welcome_stmath.
An important goal of ST Math is that students take a conscious role in their learning so they can more easily apply what they learn in ST Math to other situations. Remember that the animation provides immediate and informative feedback so use it to help students figure it out for themselves.
Your role should include:
- Monitor students while they are working.
- Periodically ask students how they are “winning” the games.
- Ask questions (like the ones below) to learn what they’re thinking.
- If students are “stuck,” use the Learning Cycle to help students figure it out for themselves.
Step 1: Notice
- Notice all the parts of the puzzle.
- What do you think the puzzle is asking you to do?
- Hint: If you click on the screen, important parts of the puzzle are highlighted.
Step 2: Predict
- Visualize what is going to happen.
- What do you think will happen when you click?
- Hint: Pause before clicking the green Go button or the answer to check your answer.
Step 3: Analyze
- Click and watch the animation to see what happens.
- What happens in the animation when you click?
- Hint: If you double click the screen during the animation, you'll see controls that let you pause and replay the animation.
Step 4: Connect
- Think about what you learned from the puzzle.
- What other math ideas does it make you think of?
- Hint: If you have double clicked the screen, you'll have access to a tool that lets you explain your thinking.
