138 ◆ Mini-Lessons
problems in the textbook. But, they have to learn the math and be able to
understand it and be comfortable diving in and pulling it apart in new
contexts. So starting from a place of familiarity boosts engagement and
confidence. Confidence with competence makes for success.
Reflection Questions
- Do you use math mentor texts to enhance and build knowledge
around each big idea? - Do you use poems and songs to help teach the big ideas?
- In what ways could you use believe it or not stories to grab your
students’ interest? How will you keep it once you have it? - What types of shared experiences do you have with your students
that build on their math understandings? - What is your biggest takeaway from this chapter?