Recognizing the importance of starting with concrete models helps children grasp division concepts effectively
The journey of understanding division begins in elementary school, where children start with concrete models. These models, such as using unit cubes or tiles, help them visualize the concept of dividing numbers into groups. This foundational step is crucial as it sets the stage for more abstract thinking later on. As a parent, you can support your child by encouraging them to use these concrete models at home, helping them build a strong understanding of division from the ground up.
From Concrete to Abstract: The Journey of Division in Math Education
As a parent of a child struggling with division and factoring, it can be challenging to see your child fall behind in math. The school system may not always provide the support needed, but as a parent, you have the power to make a difference. By understanding the progression of division from elementary school through high school and utilizing available tools, you can help your child build a strong foundation in math and succeed in their academic journey.
Transitioning to symbolic models aids in the development of division skills as children progress through school
As your child moves into higher grades, they will transition from concrete models to symbolic models, such as drawing rectangles to represent division. This step is essential in bridging the gap between the physical and the abstract. Encourage your child to practice drawing these models and explain how they represent the division process. By doing so, you are helping them develop a deeper understanding of the concept and prepare for the challenges ahead.
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The nice thing about both of these models is that they are flexible… you could have a student say look I know I can make 20 groups of 13.
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The abstract model, derived from concrete and symbolic models, is crucial for advanced division and factoring
In high school, students encounter the abstract model of division, which is built upon the foundation laid by concrete and symbolic models. This model, often taught through the standard algorithm, can be challenging for students who have not mastered the earlier stages. As a parent, it’s essential to ensure that your child has a solid understanding of the concrete and symbolic models before diving into the abstract. By reinforcing these earlier concepts, you can help your child navigate the complexities of high school math with confidence.
Key Takeaways:
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Progression of Division Skills: Understanding the progression of division from elementary school through high school is crucial for parents of children with learning challenges. The video emphasizes starting with concrete models, such as using unit cubes or tiles, and gradually moving to symbolic and abstract models. This method helps children build a strong foundation and connect early learning experiences to more advanced concepts like polynomial division and factoring in higher grades.
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Concrete to Abstract Learning Model: The Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) model, or concrete fading model, is highlighted as an effective approach for teaching division. Parents should encourage their children to start with hands-on, concrete methods to grasp the concept of division before progressing to drawing models and finally to the abstract algorithms. This structured approach can significantly aid children who struggle with abstract thinking by providing a clear pathway from tangible to conceptual understanding.
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Importance of Product Statements: The video stresses the significance of writing product statements in the learning process. For children with learning challenges, understanding how to articulate the results of division and factoring through product statements can reinforce their comprehension of mathematical relationships and theorems, such as the factor theorem. Parents can support this by encouraging their children to verbalize and write out these statements, helping them see the connections between division, factoring, and algebraic expressions.
Utilizing tools like Number Sense and Logical Reasoning can enhance your child’s understanding of division
To further support your child’s learning, consider utilizing tools like Number Sense and Logical Reasoning. These resources can help your child develop a deeper understanding of division and its applications. By incorporating these tools into your child’s learning routine, you are providing them with the necessary support to overcome challenges and excel in math.
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Start with the concrete model because once you move from the concrete model you can then introduce the symbolic model.
”Overcoming the challenge of polynomial division through parental support and understanding can lead to a brighter future for your child
Polynomial division, a complex topic often introduced in high school, can be particularly challenging for students. However, with your support and understanding of the progression of division, you can help your child overcome this hurdle. By guiding them through the concrete, symbolic, and abstract models, and utilizing tools like Number Sense and Logical Reasoning, you are equipping them with the skills they need to succeed. Your dedication to their learning journey can lead to a brighter future, where they confidently tackle advanced math concepts and achieve their full potential.
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