Why number talks?
The purpose is to help children build mental math and computation strategies.
Number talks are a valuable tool in the math learning block. It does not replace math instruction, but rather complements it. Number talks allows for all students to be involved; it helps students to strengthen their math fluency, intuition, mental math strategies; and improve their ability to explain and critique solutions; as well as learn different math strategies in a collaborative, and safe learning environment. In addition, number talks provides teachers a valuable window into student thinking.
How do number talks work?
The teacher writes or presents a simple problem on the board, and students solve the problem mentally. However, students are not just looking for the answer; they are attempting to find as many different ways to solve the problem as they can. The key elements to number talks is to move away from speed and right answers, but to add emphasis on the process (how to solve the problem/ math thinking), and communication (explaining their thinking and math strategies).
Number talk hand signals:
- Fist at chest: Students holding their hand in a fist position at their chest shows me that they are ready and thinking. My students know when they get to the carpet that they sit down and put their fist on their chest. Procedures procedures procedures!
- One thumb up: Once students have an answer or a strategy they give me a thumbs up. This is not a thumbs up in the air or on top of their head, but right at their chest where their fist was.
- Thumb and pointer finger out: This shows me that the student has come up with two strategies for solving the problem.
- Hang Ten: Students show me the "hang ten" sign and shake if they agree with the answer given by another student.
