The first thing that came to Bonnie and me was the huge working memory task that we're currectly teaching- long division. Sorry Bonnie if I post this sooner than you, but we did discuss this at length and I think it is a great example.
We are asking students to divide, multiply, subtract, compare and the regroup the digit and continue this until the problem is complete. Not to mention that it is a mathematical process that is done left to right, when for the most part we always teach math processes from right to left. Of course you all probably remember or have heard of the "Does Mcdonalds Sell Cheese Burgers?" device to help them remember each step; D-divide, Multiply, Subtract, Check/Compare, Bring up or down next number"
I think that the class poster will help some to see the visual model/instructions daily as well as insisting they put these letters beside each long division problem so that they have to use the letters and check mark next to each as they complete that task. I am interested to see what others think would be helful to those who seem to have working memory difficulty.
1 comment:
Gerri, I think it is a wise decision on your part to have a poster with the proper steps as a visual. Long division is multiple steps, and if not followed precisely the student will never succeed. The poster will allow them to double check their word and to help guide them throughout the process. Also, making a hard copy for them to keep in a sheet protector in their binder, for when they are at home completing assignments.
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