Flexibility with Numbers and Building Number Sense
What does it mean to be flexible with numbers and why is this important when it comes to number sense? One specific math algorithm comes to mind that almost everyone has had to use at one point or another; long division. Now, don’t get me wrong. I think it is a helpful strategy that many people understand pretty well, and it can be utilized with a variety of division problems. However, when I think of the masses of students that I’ve worked with over the years who had such a hard time learning it, even I have developed a dislike of having to teach long division. I’ve also seen students who learned long division so exclusively that this is the only way they can find the solution to any division problem.
So, here are my questions when it comes to flexibility with numbers in an effort to build number sense:
#1 – Why do we expect all students to utilize a single strategy when learning math? We already know that not all people think the same way, so why do we expect everyone to use the same method?
#2 – If a student is discouraged because they are struggling to learn one specific strategy, how does that frustration contribute to their overall feelings about math? Do they see problem-solving as something unattainable when they don’t understand ‘long division’?
#3 – What math reasoning skills are students missing out on when they only see, use, or understand one way to solve a problem? Is long division always the most efficient way to find a quotient?
Flexibility with Numbers
In the spirit of being flexible with numbers, check out below a few different ways that could be used to divide 824 into 8 groups. Can you see the value that comes with exploring a variety of ways to solve the same problem? Can you think of some other ideas that might also work?
By embracing multiple strategies and approaches to problem-solving, we empower our students as mathematicians. This flexibility encourages resilience, and creativity, and supports a deeper understanding of concepts.
About the Author
Crystal Paul
Let's Learn Together!
I’m on a mission to empower students to embrace challenges and cultivate a belief in themselves that they can learn and grow! If you’re ready to help your middle schooler rewrite the narrative around their math education, schedule a free 15-minute consultation to learn how virtual math tutoring can help.