No Series: Collaborative Memory in Math

Collaborative Memory in Math

Lesson Objective: Students work in groups to understand and solve equations

Grades 6-8 / Math / Collaboration

4 MIN

Discussion
Supporting Materials

Thought starters

How does the simple use of a timer or stop watch enhance the activity?
How is this memorization activity" more effective than typical rote memory activities?
Notice how this activity sets the stage for student discourse and group problem-solving?

4 Comments

Taishen Liu Mar 2, 2021 3:43pm

It is such a fantastic way to introduce a topic utilizing collective memory exercise!!!

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Candi Miranda Dec 8, 2018 11:09am

Brilliant idea!

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Nadine O'Garro Apr 28, 2015 4:55am

Fantastic! Students have the option of just "copying" BUT are pushed to think as mathematicians would and actually DO the math to be more efficient. Even still, if groups become stuck, a team member will have the opportunity to "memorize" the card for 15sec. and bring the information back to the team. I love it!!!

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shelly melgoza May 23, 2013 6:41pm

timer really makes them focus on the task

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Materials

Transcripts

Summary

An innovative lesson planning idea for exploring equations with secondary students in an active Key Stage 3 mathematics lesson.
Math

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Summary

An innovative lesson planning idea for exploring equations with secondary students in an active Key Stage 3 mathematics lesson.
Math teacher Susanne Mallett, at Comberton Village College, demonstrates a simple memory game she uses to encourage her Year 8 pupils to work together, exploring mathematical equations.
Pupils from each group have four 15-second opportunities to look at and 'memorize' a printed sheet of related diagrams and equations. The groups then have to reproduce the information they've seen on the sheet for themselves.
The principle behind the activity is that the sheet is easier to reproduce by using mathematical insight than by trying to remember the whole thing 'cold'.
Susanne feels that with clear behavior ground rules, her pupils enjoy active lessons like this and it's a technique she finds works well with a wide range of age groups and mathematical topics.

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