Engaging Students During Number Talks!

Caution! Patience needed Ahead!

We have probably all been in those classrooms where you have just a select few who will participate in any discussions or ask any questions. Whether it is disengagement or lack of confidence; sometimes it is very difficult to pique the curiosity of all! Here are some tips.

v Be patient.

v During the early stages of your number talks, allow your students to turn and talk to their classmates about their thinking.

v Keep reminding students that mistakes are all a part of learning.

v Suggest a strategy to get them thinking.  

AND FINALLY - Never say no!

No matter how off-the-wall a student’s answer is, never make them feel as if their answer is wrong.  Question their thinking rather than correct their answers.  “Through our questions, we seek to understand students’ thinking.”  (Humphreys, Cathy, 2015). 

Ask questions such as:

·      Can you show me how you got that answer?

·      Can you explain why you think _________?

·      Did anyone come up with a different answer?

·      Thank you for sharing.  Would anyone else like to share their thoughts?

·      Look again. Could there be another possibility?

All the work at the beginning will be worth it in the end when your students ask, "Miss, can we do a nUmber talk today?"