The Importance of Middle Grades Mathematics
Middle-grade math is such a critical time for students to learn basic algebra skills that will help them to be successful in higher levels of math classes. The problem is that some students going into middle school still need help with number sense because they still have gaps in their learning from earlier grades. Often, they also still need to learn their basic math facts, which slows down the process of them working out simple algebraic expressions and equations.
Both of these hindrances could occur for several reasons, and ultimately it doesn’t matter why it just matters that middle-level teachers try to continue to fill in those gaps for students. If students develop a strong basic understanding of algebra skills, they are more likely to do well in Algebra I, which will help them continue into higher-level classes. If a student excels in math, they could follow a path into mathematics-related careers such as engineering, architecture, or other STEM-based jobs.
Challenges in Teaching Middle Grade Mathematics
Common misconceptions about middle-grades math is that all students hate math and everything in math is difficult. Teaching middle-level math comes with unique challenges based on the points above. However, as a former middle school math teacher, it is doable, and it is possible to enjoy it and have the students enjoy it. The easiest way to start is by teaching the students something they can do and master.
This gets immediate buy-in that math is not the enemy. Teachers should also strategically plan for small group instruction based on unit pre-test and common formative assessments throughout a unit to meet students where they are. You can also give differentiated homework to support students by giving them something they can complete independently at home. A whole group mini-lesson can be done to introduce a concept, but not all students will be ready to learn it; that is where the pre-test data will help teachers make decisions about instruction.
Strategies for Engaging Middle Grades Students in Mathematics
In middle grades math it is crucial for students to be engaged. Teachers have to plan for fun and meaningful activities related to the real world that students will be interested in. It is also important for teachers to talk to students about their level of engagement and discuss with them why it is important to be an active learner who takes responsibility. There are a variety of ideas that teachers can implement to enhance student engagement. These can include, but are not limited to:
Gimkit
Gimkit is a classroom game-show platform where students compete by answering questions on their electronic devices. Instead of earning points, students earn virtual currency, which they can “invest” during the game to boost their score.
PearDeck
This interactive technology tool transforms your presentation slides into opportunities for formative assessment and active learning.
EdPuzzle
This free assessment-centered tool allows teachers and students to create interactive online videos by embedding either open-ended or multiple-choice questions, audio notes, audio tracks, or comments on a video.
Kahoot!
Kahoot! is a beloved and well-known game-based learning platform that makes it easy to create, share and play learning games or trivia quizzes in minutes.
Nearpod
Nearpod makes any lesson interactive, whether in the classroom or virtual. A teacher can create interactive presentations that can contain Quizzes, Polls, Videos, & Collaborate Boards
Sumdog
Sum Dog is an engaging game-based learning that adapts to each individual learner to motivate and build confidence.
Haiku Deck
Haiku Deck is a presentation creation website and app (for iOS) that uses images, text, audio, and video to make impactful presentations with “decks” of slides.
Plickers
Plickers is an assessment tool made by a teacher who was looking for a quick and simple way to check student understanding.
Popplet
Popplet is a dynamic organizational tool available on the web or as an app where users create mind maps on a board, students can use text, drawings, images, or video.
ShowMe
ShowMe is an interactive whiteboard app for iPad where teachers and students can create presentations with live drawings, text, images, and audio recordings.
Virtual Manipulatives
This is an interactive, Web-based visual representation of an object that presents opportunities for students to use to solve math problems.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy features online lesson videos that helps educate students.
Virtual Escape Rooms
Virtual escape rooms are an interactive activity that promotes peer collaboration and problem-solving, standards-based math questions, challenges, and puzzlers.
In addition to these, teachers can also create a flipped classroom where students can watch instructional videos to learn about a concept (either teacher-made or from an online resource) so that when the teacher pulls them in small group, they are ready to practice the skill.
Middle-grade math is of utmost importance no matter the grade level. If you find that students lack motivation — continue to focus on engagement, and don’t give up! We must get them on our side at this critical time by providing instruction and activities that fill the gaps to support them, so they have a whole new attitude and success rate in math and in life.
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