Liven Up Math Classes With These Videos--Great Additional Support for Struggling Learners

Math language can cause problems for many English language learners.  Math word problems are especially difficult because the language around the word problem can often times be a challenge.  As a very basic example, look at the many synonyms for "DECREASE":  subtract, take away from, lowered by, reduce, minus, etc.  Then there are the NON-MATH words in the problems.  Look at this basic math problem for elementary school:

Five boys and three girls went on a field trip.  How many children went on the field trip all together?

First problem--the problem starts off with BOYS and GIRLS and then combines the two to make CHILDREN.  An ELL will wonder where that word came from (unless the teacher has addressed it).  Then there is the word "FIELD TRIP."  FIELD TRIP to many ELLs would mean a school yard or big open area with trees and lots of room to run and play.  Again, unless the teacher explains that there is not connection between a field and a field trip, the student will be confused.  Last, the words "all together."  To an English speaking student, that means ADD.  That will be a new word for the ELL.   So math teachers will also need to be English language teachers no matter what level of math they teach:)

Since math becomes increasingly more difficult as ELLs move on to middle school and high school, the same problem still faces them---the language of math.  Teachers need to develop the math language before the ELL can undertake solving the problem.

The video sites below offer more support for struggling students both ELLs and EOs.  Since it is visually presented in simple formats, it should be comprehensible for the majority of students.  Students hear the problem, see it drawn out, and watch it being solved as the teacher carefully covers each step of the process slowly and accurately (with a dose of humor throughout).  Further, these are sites that they can access at home, school library, on smart phones, iPads, tablets, etc.  For such students to know that they can revisit a math activity as often as they like until they finally understand it eases some of the stress of trying to learn English and content at the same time. 

Both sites are free of course though they do want students and teachers to register.  If students don't feel comfortable doing this, the teacher can just load these sites on class computers for students to use as needed.

Please note that though I am not a math teacher, I am an instructional coach who looks for practical ways to support all teachers with ELLs in their classes.  So what I share with you here, I pass on to colleagues:)


MATH VIDEOS FOR ALL GRADE LEVELS

HIGH SCHOOL MATH AND BEYOND!

Denise

ELL TEACHER PROS

Canon LS-82Z 8 Digit Basic Calculator LS82ZA (Google Affiliate Ad)
HP g6-1d60us Notebook PC (Google Affiliate Ad)
Acer A200 Iconia Tablet, 16 GB, Titanium Gray XE.H8QPN.001 (Google Affiliate Ad)

Create a Direct Connection Between ALGEBRA and the REAL WORLD For Your Students:)

Often times, students go to math classes (here algebra), do the activities/exercises, might have some exposure to how the numbers and symbols in text might be applied in the world outside of class, and possibly get good grades.  BUT, what have they really learned?  Can they explain the connection between the subject and any actual application to solving problems?

Well, the new Common Core Standards in Math will be addressing this very same issue.  Teachers will be incorporating the necessary academic vocabulary into all lessons, expecting students to use it in speaking, recognize it when reading word problems, incorporate it in writing word problems, use it when explaining how they arrived at an answer, ask specific questions on problems they had in attempting to solve a problem, and be able to understand the terms when classmates or the teacher bring them into class discussion.

For ELLs, this process may need more support from the teacher, but it can still be achieved.  Since teachers will be recycling key vocabulary in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, ELLs will not only be exposed to it, but be able to actually insert it wherever necessary.  This focus will produce students who should be able upon finishing high school secure a well-paid job or go on to the university and do well and THAT is the end goal of the Common Core Standards in Math. 

DIRECT APPLICATION OF ALGEBRA TO REAL WORLD provides students with a detailed look at how the digits in the text actually solve exciting problems in the real world.  Teachers select one item (linear equations, quadratic equations, etc.) and then click on the link that accompanies it.  There they will find lessons, mini-movie clips (some come with a dvd that must be purchased, but most don't).

Here are some of the subject areas covered:

Predict future sports records based on past statistics
What qualities or characteristics would you look for in the material that is used to make an aquarium?
Build a two-dimensional "rover" and analyze its ability to climb over obstacles as you vary the diameter and spacing of its "wheels."
Find the exact equation for a new telescope mirror with a given light-gathering power and focal length. (from The FUTURES CHANNEL which you can subscribe to for FREE).

Hope your students enjoy this link.  Also, if you are American, happy July 4th:)

Denise


ELL TEACHER PROS