Delivery methods for algebra
I struggle with variety in instructional method with my algebra class. I have to present the content and demonstrate it. I have a hard time getting to students to work in groups/pairs. I would like to have students work at the board with their classmates help but it isn't very practical in a class of 16. Thoughts?
Hi Marcia,
Perhaps this may help...After I cover a topic or a section in the course, I have the students work on in-class worksheets. They can work together in groups or individually or ask my assistance. Perhaps when they have completed the worksheet the group/pairs can go over the steps they took in solving the problem.
Brenda
Hi Marcia,
Wish I had some really great ideas to help you but I don't. You are doing the key things with your lecture demonstration methods. The application part is where you are being challenged as I read the question. Having never taught a course quite like this I'm not sure why the learning groups idea is not working as well as you like. Are there any game/competition activities that you could use that would get the students involved. I use them a lot with my classes and the students get excited about competitions and games anytime I mention we are going to use them. Is it possible to have the student pairs go to the board and work through a sample problem while explaining the process to the rest of the class? Could you have the student pairs talk with other instructors and bring back to the algebra class examples of how algebra is used in their classes? This would show application and transference plus get them involved in developing use of the math skills.
Just a few ideas I would explore if I were teaching such a class. Hope you hear from other participants with other ideas as well.
Gary
