Rich Resources: Children's Literature
Overview
Children's literature can be a welcoming way to help students learn math vocabulary and concepts. Research has shown that books provide a meaningful context for learning math, helping students understand and retain concepts more deeply in Long-term Memory. This strategy can also support the practice of culturally responsive teaching and can be used with other strategies that allow representation of all learners in the curriculum.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
Mystery Math: A First Book of Algebra uses humorously spooky illustrations and easy, engaging text to demystify basic algebra. A teacher can use this as an opening activity or hook for an Algebra 1 course or a new unit of algebra.
Design It into Your Product
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Physical Space Strategies
Dim or natural lighting provides a calming environment.
Having space where students can go supports Self-regulation and individual deliberate practice.
Multiple tables and chairs on wheels allow for setting up the classroom to support the desired learning outcomes of each activity.
Multiple display spaces help develop oral language skills as well as Social Awareness & Relationship Skills by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.
Multiple writing surfaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.
Decreasing extra audio input provides a focused learning environment.
Math games and manipulatives for vision differences support math development for learners with visual needs.
Providing ways for students to adjust sound level supports individual auditory needs.
Providing ways for students to meet their individual temperature needs supports focus and Self-regulation.
Spaces that are structured, organized, and clean provide increased room for collaboration and active learning.
