Seeing Math™ Elementary: Video

Seeing Math™ Elementary creates dynamic learning experiences centered on video case studies that depict experienced teachers at work with their students in classroom, small group and one-on-one situations. The video cases serve as objects of study, creating dynamic and authentic learning experiences that stimulate observation, analysis and reflection and shed light on student thinking about mathematics.

Just as in "real life," the case studies present situations that are often ambiguous with no definite "right" or "wrong" solutions. Rather than lead participants to a specific conclusion or interpretation, Seeing Math™ Elementary uses case studies to establish a framework for grounded and provocative discussions.

Note: In order to view the following video, you must have QuickTime installed. If the video shows up as a missing icon, you probably don't have it installed. QuickTime is a free download for Mac and Windows.

Pan Balance Equations
Grade range: 3 to 6
Audrey Soglin's 5th grade class manipulates concrete representations of equivalence, using pan balances to understand the nature of equations and operations on equations. Students investigate a model for solving equations using one and two variables. By laying a firm foundation at the upper elementary level, this lesson supports a district commitment to teaching algebra in 8th grade to all students.

Division with Remainders
Grade range: 3 to 6
For 4th and 5th graders, division with remainders and the inverse nature of division and multiplication are key ideas. Lead math teacher Nancy Horowitz and another cluster teacher, Mary Beth O'Connor, present the same lesson. Students in each class build understanding about the nature of the division by creating and solving their own story problems. The lesson lays a conceptual foundation for division before presenting a formal algorithm.

Other video segments that complement case studies include:

• Teacher Reflections: teachers featured in each case study share their own observations and reflect on lessons learned.
• Expert Commentary: nationally recognized specialists comment on aspects of each case study, highlighting learning theory and instructional practices.

For access to complete case studies, please register here.