KENDRICK:[initially looks confused, then light dawns] Oh, I get it! So, do
38 10 and another 38 10 and that will be 38 20!All of us were absolutely delighted that Kendrick was able to make this powerful
connection. His thinking would not have developed without the conversations
that went on in the class and the interest that Marcus took in encouraging the
reasoning of his fellow classmate.
Reflections
I know for myself how powerful it is to talk about math with someone. I get clar-
ification, I learn new strategies, and I can build on my understandings. Because
discourse is such an empowering tool to understanding mathematics, it is the
focal point of all my math sessions. Establishing an atmosphere that makes it safe
for students to take risks is key at the beginning of the year. Having regular math-
ematics discussions allows my students and me to support each other in building
mathematical understanding. It allows my students who struggle to practice
expressing their ideas, and it helps me understand what they know and what they
need to learn.
Talking About Square Numbers