Integrating Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Communication
Speaker: Ms. Ashalata Badami (Author of Oxford New Enjoying Mathematics, Galaxy Mathematics, Discovery Mathematics, etc.)
A one-day workshop on “Elementary Maths Learning Strategies” was conducted by the renowned mathematics author and educator, Ms. Ashalata Badami, at the Radisson, Paschim Vihar. The session emphasized integrating critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication into elementary mathematics teaching.
Key Highlights of the Workshop:
- ELPS (Experience, Language, Picture, Symbol)
Ms. Badami began the session with the ELPS approach for concept building, particularly focusing on multiplication.
Step 1: Identifying groups.
Step 2: Recognizing the number in each group.
Step 3: Understanding equal groups.
Step 4: Calculating the total using repeated addition.
Step 5: Using language to articulate concrete and pictorial experiences.
Step 6: Introducing symbols to formalize the concept.
This structured progression was illustrated through engaging activities, including building multiplication tables and the Tic-Tac-Toe multiplication game.
- Fractions Through Activities
To make fractions accessible and engaging, Ms. Badami demonstrated hands-on activities such as:
Folding paper to explain equivalent fractions.
Conducting a fractions housie/tambola game to reinforce learning.
She emphasized using pictorial representations to strengthen students’ understanding.
- Place Value and Arithmetic Operations
Activities integrating sketching and movement helped illustrate concepts of place value, addition, subtraction, and division. Ms. Badami stressed how such strategies enable deeper conceptual clarity and retention.
- Movement in the Mathematics Classroom
Highlighting the need for physical engagement in math learning, she provided examples like using LCM through group movements and integrating STREAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts.
- Mathematics Walks
A unique idea presented was a “Maths Walk” through historic sites like Humayun’s Tomb. This approach connects mathematical patterns and structures with real-world experiences.
- Math Talk/Math Speak
Ms. Badami encouraged allowing students ample time for math discussions in the classroom. For example, giving prompts such as, “You can add in any order but cannot subtract,” stimulates critical thinking and communication.
- Mindset in Mathematics
The session concluded with a focus on Fixed vs. Growth Mindsets through engaging slides. Ms. Badami emphasized the importance of fostering a growth mindset in students to build resilience and adaptability in learning mathematics.
Conclusion
The workshop provided a treasure trove of strategies to integrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication in elementary mathematics classrooms. Teachers gained actionable insights into creating dynamic, interactive, and inclusive learning environments, ensuring mathematics becomes a subject of joy and exploration for students.
The session was enlightening and interactive, inspiring participants to implement these innovative methods in their teaching practices.
