Sample math strategies

• Remembering the multiplication table:
  • Make use of regularities in the number system - i.e. 2, 5, 10
  • Show shortcuts to memorizing i.e. if 8x7 = 56 then 7 x 8 = 56.⁶²
  
  
• Computation:
  • Build on existing knowledge and work from what learners know: i.e. if they know 2 x 6 = 12 then 3 x 6 = 12 + 6 or 9x facts can be estimated as 10x facts and then adjusted (10 x 7 = 70:70 - 7 = 63: 9x7 = 63).⁶³
  • Use modeling. Practitioners demonstrate, while verbalizing the key words associated with each step; the learners then perform the steps while verbalizing and looking at the practitioner's model; and then learners complete the process with just the model available.⁶⁴
  • Break down new information into the sequential predicating concepts that need to be known before the new skills can be learned, i.e. you have to know addition before you multiply.⁶⁵ Steps can be shown visually with the use of flow chart or verbally modeled - all depending on learners' needs.
  • Present various methods for computation, and together with the learners, determine which strategy works best for them. Go to http://www.ldonline.org/ld_indepth/math_skills/adapt_cld.html for examples of various algorithm strategies.