There’s nothing better than seeing a great discussion in math class.
We don’t often consider that the meaningful conversations that our students have will occur during a math period, but this is often the best place for debate, discussion, and negotiation to take place.
I recently witnessed a lesson in which two students disagreed about the solution to a problem. The teacher deftly took a step back, and let the natural process of disagreement reign supreme.
Each student defended their answers. The teacher asked a simple question, “Who do you agree with?” And suddenly, the class was engaged in a meaningful discussion about the math problem.
Disagreement. Curiosity. Wonder. Speculation. Negotiation.
Math.
It’s a beautiful thing.
Rich (@RACzyz)