Strategies
Throughout the use of math stations, several activities were implemented to engage students in applying the addition and subtraction strategies used to solve simple and complex problems. Below is a description of the strategies used.
Goal Setting
At the start of math stations, each student selected a math related goal that they are working towards through the use of stations. Each students' goal was individualized and written down by the student.
Cover, Copy, Compare
The Cover, Copy, Compare method was utilized during students' time at their seats. It was an intervention used to help increase math fact fluency among the lowest two math groups. For this strategy, students are presented a problem with the correct answer. After observing the correct problem, the student covers the problem and writes the answer to the same problem. Finally, the student uncovers the answer and compares their response to the correct answer. If the student determines they have answered the problem correctly, the move to the next math fact and repeat the process. If the student determines they answered the problem incorrectly, they correct their answer before moving to the next problem.
Flashcards
Students utilized flashcards as part of their seat work. When students completed their independent work as instructed as part of the At Your Seat rotation, they worked with flashcards to practice math fact fluency. Flashcards for both addition and subtraction facts were used.
Games
Games were implemented in the stations as the Hands On rotation. There were several games that students could chose from, each practicing a different addition or subtraction strategy. Students played the games in pairs or groups of three. The games included; Tens Go Fish, Turn Over Ten, Salute, Double It, Sneaky Snake, High Roller, and Pizza Subtraction. The goal of using games is for students to practice the mathematical strategies they have been taught. The use of games can make these strategies become more concrete and easier for students to understand and apply. Some of the addition and subtraction strategies learned in primary grades include, making a ten, doubles, counting on, and thinking addition to help subtract. Many games allow students to practice these strategies in a way that is motivating and fun and are an alternative to paper, pencil practice.
