Yesterday during a writing lecture, the presenter emphasized the act of examination as students study text and respond in writing.
I like the idea of introducing students to the process of examination in a deliberate way, and I'll do that today.
First, we'll discuss the word: What does it mean to examine?
Examine: to inspect in detail, to investigate thoroughly.
Then, I'll ask, What tools will help us to examine math concepts? Once they offer their thoughts, I'll say, Today we're going to examine the "behavior" of place value again as we watch another SCRATCH animated math model. Let's see what we notice today. Watch carefully. Jot down notes and questions that you have. Also write down ideas about how I could have made this animated model better, and if needed, use the calculator to check my work or try out an idea you have as you watch the animation.
Then we'll share ideas.
If time permits, we'll examine the concept more by writing the number in the film in base-ten numeral form (standard form), expanded form, word form, expanded notation, and scientific notation.
We'll also use the calculators and examine how the decimal point moves in this number when we multiply by 10, 100, 1000, 1/10, 1/100, 1/1000.
Later in the day students will have a chance to apply their learning as they create their own place value movies, complete metric number lines, and practice skill using Khan Academy.
