For Classroom Teachers
MathPro is designed to be fun, but more importantly also to be non-threatening for the participants. Many students struggle with their confidence when it comes to math, and careful attention has been paid to creating games and activities that are low risk. MathPro challenges their preconceived notions that math instruction is difficult or boring. It is critical that students have a chance to learn at their own pace without feeling judged too soon. With that in mind, we are confident that you will find that MathPro provides safety, fun and challenge for all levels of students.
Many teachers also share some anxiety with math. We want to help teachers lower their anxiety and improve their confidence with teaching math. MathPro with its collection of lessons, strategies, and games can help elementary and middle school teachers of different backgrounds deliver quality math instruction.
The MathPro set was also created with the classroom teacher in mind. Classroom time is precious and teachers need to have the ability to transition from one activity to another quickly. At a glance a teacher should be able to see that all of the components are in the set.
Front of box: Easy to see that all 15 dice are there.
Back of box: If the corners are arranged correctly. It is easy to tell that all four charts are there.
Here is a look at the components and features of the MathPro set.
Ways To Use The Set(s) In The Classroom
With one set, a document camera and providing each student with a personal whiteboard and pen you can do all of the activities with your class.
Example 1: Learning Activity 6 - Set One Die Addition
Purpose of the activity
Student will be able to add two one-digit numbers together, with the Teacher “setting” one die to start with easier numbers first. Students could also get practice writing numerical equations.
Materials needed
Addition chart, two basic black dice, document camera, class set of personal whiteboards and dry erase pens.
How to play
Teacher sets one die at 2 (or whichever number Teacher chooses) and the second die is rolled. Student(s) figure out the sum, possibly using the addition chart as a tool. Teacher directs students to write out the equation with the answer.
See how to use MathPro with a whole class
Example 2: Game 13-Up
Purpose of the activity
Student will be able to figure out how to use the given dice along with combining the dice to create the numbers 1-13
Materials needed
One basic black die, one advanced black die, one red basic die, document camera, class set of personal whiteboards and dry erase pens.
How to play
Teacher rolls the 3 dice, showing the rolled dice to the students. If any of the dice are duplicated (say you get two dice that are both sixes, the teacher can then ask for a volunteer to choose which dice to reroll (and possibly ask them about the logic of their choice). After the dice are set, the students will then cross off as many numbers on their whiteboard as possible. Teacher shares what students were able to come up with. A game consists of 3 rolls, and students cross off all the numbers that they can create with the given rolls.