Teaching Strategies Archives - Krejci Creations

Simple 2-Day Plan to Help Students Classify Quadrilaterals with Confidence

March 11, 2023 by Krejci Creations

If you’re looking for engaging and simple ways to teach students how to classify quadrilaterals, you’re in the right place! This topic can get pretty complex and messy, but I have the PERFECT 2-day plan that is simple, effective, and loads of fun!

Throughout this lesson, your students will work together to analyze attributes of quadrilaterals, discuss their observations, and learn all about the hierarchy of quadrilaterals. You’ll even get to take a back seat and allow your students to do most of the work.

Day 1: Attributes of Quadrilaterals

A few years ago, my teaching partner was searching online for a basic lesson on classifying quadrilaterals. We couldn’t just jump into the hierarchy of quadrilaterals without teaching an introductory lesson first. She stumbled upon this activity from Better Lesson, and it was exactly what we were looking for. We made a few adjustments to the original lesson and gave it a shot.

Turns out, it was a HUGE success! 🎉 All of the extra research and work we put into planning this lesson paid off.

So, let’s get to the nitty-gritty of what this lesson is all about.

The only prep on our end was to print the quadrilateral pages as posters and hang them around the room. If you aren’t able to print poster-size, tape or glue them on anchor chart paper. We divided students into 6 groups (one for each quadrilateral) and gave each group different colored sticky notes.

Side note–I updated the posters to make them more colorful, simply because I like bright colors.

Their job as a group was to write down one thing they noticed about all of the shapes on the poster. Do they all have right angles? Parallel lines? 4 sides? Students wrote down one common attribute on a sticky note and placed it on their poster. I recommend requiring students to take turns writing on sticky notes to avoid any arguments and to make sure all students are participating.

Once all groups were finished, they rotated to the next poster and repeated the same task. However, they could not write down an attribute that had already been listed. This rule forced them to analyze and discuss at a deeper level each time they arrived at a new poster. They did need my guidance at the end since most of their ideas had been taken.

After students rotated through all 6 posters, we came together as a class and analyzed the results. The discussion that followed nearly made my teacher heart burst! It was rich with academic vocabulary and showed how much they learned about quadrilaterals.

To end the lesson, we recorded our findings in an organized table by checking off attributes of each quadrilateral and highlighting the main attribute that gives them their name. Students kept this checklist in their notebooks to reference throughout the unit. Grab your copy of this checklist by choosing from the half-page or full-page version.

It’s important to note that we only gave a checkmark when ALL of those shapes shared the attribute. For example, even though some quadrilaterals have right angles, not all of them do. The only attribute all quadrilaterals share is 4 sides and 4 angles.

What I Love Most About This Lesson

My favorite part of this activity was observing how well students worked together and how determined they were to find a unique attribute. They loved being able to move around the room and collaborate with peers. In addition, I enjoyed stepping aside and letting them discover these concepts with their group. Teaching does not always need to follow the “I do, we do, you do” format!

As a result of this activity, students gained basic knowledge of quadrilaterals as well as the unique attributes that set them apart. It was the perfect segue into the next day’s lesson.

If you like this lesson, be sure to read Day 2’s Lesson where students attend a Quadrilateral Fashion Show! Click the play button below for a sneak peek!

Until next time,

Happy Teaching!

Multiplicative Comparisons – Tips and Resources for Student Success

August 2, 2022 by Krejci Creations

Common Core standards were adopted by the vast majority of states in 2010. For teachers, it was out with the old and in with the new. Change can be hard, and this “new math” created quite a stir among teachers and parents.

One of the new standards added to 4th grade math was multiplicative comparisons, and boy were they a challenge to teach! After many years, I have found what works (and what doesn’t) when teaching multiplicative comparisons.

Multiplicative Comparisons - A shift in thinking

The big shift for 4th graders is to understand multiplication in the reverse order that they learned in previous years. For example, they first learned that 5 x 3 = 15. Now, it’s often written as 15 = 3 x 5, which is much harder to process. Further, students learn to read this equation as “15 is 3 times as many as 5”.

Why the change? It better aligns with the context of real-world scenarios. For instance, Jane is 15 years old. Her sister is 5 years old. This means Jane is 3 times as old as her sister (i.e. 15 = 3 x 5). Therefore, it’s important to implement word problems as you teach this skill.

Multiplicative comparisons - Product Unknown

There are two types of multiplicative comparisons: product unknown and factor unknown. For both types, it’s helpful to use a CPA approach (concrete-pictorial-abstract).

Concrete: Concrete means students are using hands-on materials to build conceptual understanding. I use the blank side of fraction tiles and have students label them with dry-erase markers. Because fraction tiles are already broken into equal-sized pieces, they are the perfect manipulative for this concept.

Play Video about basic multiplicative comparisons

Click on the play button below to see how I use fraction tiles to find the unknown product.

This video is part of my digital anchor chart resource that plays video tutorials when students click or scan the QR codes!

Pictorial: Once you’ve modeled with fraction tiles, transition to having students use a pictorial model, specifically a bar model.

This visual model helps students understand the relationship between the two quantities.

Abstract: Finally, students are ready to solve problems without a model, which is the abstract approach. They can write an equation (multiplication or division) to solve for the unknown factor.

Multiplicative Comparisons - Factor Unknown

This is the more challenging of the two comparisons. Many students struggle to see the multiplicative relationship when the factor is unknown.

In the example below, students might read the problem and become confused because “3 times something doesn’t equal 32”.

Play Video about multiplicative comparison powerpoint lesson

They must work through the CPA approach to discover why the equation would be 4 x n = 32 instead.

Therefore, I use the same strategy as in the first example: fraction tiles, bar models, and writing equations.

This example is part of my Editable Multiplicative Comparison PowerPoint Lesson. What’s unique about my PowerPoint lessons is they include printable and digital resources to use after the lesson for additional practice, such as a Google Form Assessment and small group activity!

Once you’ve taught both types of multiplicative comparisons, plan a day to review both types of problems. This allows students to see the similarities and differences between the two.

Multiplicative comparison resources

You’ll need a variety of activities to get you started. These Boom Cards are my favorite resource because of their self-checking feature. When practicing a new skill, it’s essential students have immediate feedback. This is the wow factor in Boom Cards!

Students can use any electronic device with internet access to complete these digital task cards.

Want to know more about Boom Cards? Read my BLOG POST with details on how to use them in your classroom.

Task cards are my go-to resource for small group instruction. For starters, students can focus on one question at a time. In addition, it’s simple for me to check their work. I normally have students solve 3-5 task cards at my small group table.

If you’re a fan of task cards, check out Episode 14 of Elementary Math Chat! I share 5 of my favorite ways to use and repurpose task cards to help you get the most out of these resources.

I share ideas for choice boards, partner activities to pair them with, and how to use them with cooperative learning structures.

In addition, I explain how to use them in your whole group instruction and within a Google Form assessment.

Okay, back to multiplicative comparisons…I’m going to say something controversial in the teacher world. Giving students a worksheet for extra practice is totally fine! If they have a purpose, then they fit under my umbrella of “purposeful practice”.

These worksheets can be used for small group instruction, intervention time, included in choice boards, or assigned as homework.

Practice makes progress

I wish there was a magic wand I could wave to get students to better understand multiplicative comparisons. In reality, it just takes practice…LOTS of practice.

Furthermore, remember to give yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. I spiral back to this skill all year long, especially right before state testing. A little bit of review goes a long way.

To help get you started, grab this FREE deck of Boom Cards!

Until next time,
Happy Teaching!

-Annamarie

P.S. For more 1-digit multiplication resources, shop my TPT store. You’ll find over 40 resources to choose from, including games, worksheets, task cards, and digital Boom Cards.

Place Value Tips for 4th Grade Teachers

July 26, 2022 by Krejci Creations

Chances are, place value is the very first unit you teach every school year. There’s no doubt that teaching math lessons on top of establishing routines, classroom procedures, and expectations is challenging. Here’s how I break down place value concepts along with a few place value tips to make the first week manageable and successful.

Place value Lesson 1: Reading Large Numbers (Day 1)

Do you really know someone well if you don’t know their name? Likewise, if students are expected to understand place value within 7-digit numbers, they must know how to read their names! While this may not be the first lesson in your scope and sequence, it’s crucial to incorporate reading numbers as early as possible. For me, it is the very first thing I teach!

Students might feel overwhelmed when faced with a 7-digit number. Therefore, it’s important to break it down for them. Color-coding and chunking numbers into periods will help students get a grasp on large numbers.

By doing so, they never have to read more than 3 digits at a time. If students can read a 3-digit number, they can read a 7-digit number, and so on!

Another tip is to use numbers that have meaning behind them. How many people live in your city? How many McDonald’s Happy Meals are sold each day? Students will be more engaged and interested if they understand what the numbers represent.

Place Value Lesson 2: Place Value vs. Value (Day 1)

Next, I move on to value and place value. We continue to read the numbers as we identify value and place value positions. I use the same work mat as shown above for both skills. This lesson is short and sweet, which is why there is time to incorporate reading numbers.

Place Value Lesson 3: Place Value Relationships (Day 2)

This work mat reinforces important skills such as value and expanded form and helps students understand that each place value position has a value ten times greater than the position to its right.

Writing this in a multiplication equation prepares them for multiplicative comparisons, which is not too far down the road. The following video shows a sample of this lesson from start to finish.

slow and Steady Wins the Race

Students are learning so many things the first week back. Because of this, I often remind myself to slow down, relax, and take it one day and one lesson at a time. If I’m feeling overwhelmed, chances are they are too! These skills are the foundation for 4th grade…slow and steady will help them win the race.

4th Grade Place Value PowerPoint Lessons and Activities

All work mats and activities in this blog post are from my Place Value Unit. These lessons were created for the busy teacher who wants their students to be engaged and excited about learning but doesn’t have the time to start from scratch.

All lessons are editable (woohoo!) and come with printable activities to use during and after the lesson. My hope is for these lessons to save you time and relieve you from the stress that back-to-school season can bring. They are teacher-tested and student-approved as I’ve been using them with my 4th graders for years!

Now, if I left you wanting even more place value tips, head to your favorite podcast listening app and check out Episode 8 of Elementary Math Chat. I share tips for planning your place value lessons, strategies to help students overcome the most challenging place value skills, and small group activities your students will love.

Until next time,
Happy Teaching!

P.S. If you’re new to using work mats, THIS BLOG POST is a must-read!

3 Tips to Help Students Master Double-Digit Multiplication

July 19, 2022 by Krejci Creations

Fourth grade math is no joke! One minute you’re reviewing basic multiplication facts, and the next minute, BAM! You’re teaching students double-digit multiplication. Learning how to multiply multi-digit numbers is more like a marathon, not a sprint. I’m here to help you through the race, one step at a time!

The end goal is for students to use the standard algorithm to solve double-digit multiplication problems. However, it’s never a good idea to begin with this method. Students need to know the “reason before the rule”, or the “why before the how”. Therefore, begin with the following methods that teach students a conceptual understanding of double-digit multiplication.

Double-Digit Multiplication Method #1: Area Model

The area model is the first method I teach, and it’s my favorite for many reasons. First, it breaks up the numbers into expanded form. Students are less likely to make an error multiplying these simpler numbers.

Second, it conceptually teaches students what it means to multiply double-digit numbers. Third, it helps students organize their work, which is crucial to math mastery!

Even though this method takes a little more work with drawing the model, most of my students prefer it once they’ve learned all three. Even my strugglers are successful with the area model method!

One way to challenge your higher students is to give them problems with missing information. In the task cards below, you’ll notice card #26 requires students to use clues from the problem to solve for the unknowns. This is a fun and simple way to make area model multiplication more interesting for those students who need a challenge!

Double-Digit Multiplication Method #2: Partial Products

The partial product method is similar to the area model method, but students do not draw the area model. Instead, they set up the problem just like they would for the standard algorithm. This strategy is a bit more advanced, so expect students to struggle in the beginning.

Work mats are a must when first teaching partial products! These guided templates are ideal to use during your whole group lesson but can also be used in small groups and as an accommodation for students with IEP’s. You can read more about math work mats and how to use them in the classroom if they are a new concept for you!

The partial product method definitely requires more time and practice before students begin to show mastery. Therefore, it’s important to work with students in small groups on this skill.

For my small group activity, I use these differentiated task cards. These task cards provide additional support for strugglers through place value charts, guided boxes, and simpler multiplication facts.

Therefore, if students are struggling, they work the lower-numbered cards with the guided boxes and place value charts. Students who feel more confident but still need help with alignment use the middle numbered cards that contain place value charts. Those who feel confident and don’t need assistance work the higher numbered cards with zero guidance and more challenging multiplication facts. I love seeing students move through the different levels and feel proud of their achievements!

Using a place value chart is SO helpful when first teaching partial products! Not only does it help students align their numbers, but it also reinforces how this method uses place value in creating partial products.

Double-Digit Multiplication Method #3: Standard Algorithm

Here’s the thing. The standard algorithm for 2-digit multiplication is not required in 4th grade, but I still teach it. However, I tell my students at the beginning of my lesson that this is a bonus strategy. If they love it, they can use it (and many of them will!) However, if they hate it, they can say “Buh-bye, see you next year!” and go back to the other methods previously learned. This takes the stress and worries out of the equation.

Similar to the partial product method, I teach students the standard algorithm using a work mat with a place value chart. It’s important they understand how regrouping plays into this strategy. In addition, the place value chart helps students with alignment and organization.

For example, students need to know why they put the zero in the second partial product, and the place value chart helps them see this. I cringe when I see someone put an x in that spot. NOOOOOOO I want to scream! Remember, students need to know the reason before the rule.

Double-Digit Multiplication Review: Choose a Method

Once I’ve taught all three methods, I incorporate a lesson called, “Choose a Method”. We complete this anchor chart which reviews each strategy and helps compare the methods. We discuss the pros and cons of each, and students decide which strategy is the best fit for them.

I hope you find these tips helpful as you begin your journey in teaching double-digit multiplication. For more resources, visit my TPT Store where you’ll find a large selection to help you get started!

Until next time,
Happy Teaching!

-Annamarie

P.S. If you’re a fan of podcasts, check out Episodes 10-12 of Elementary Math Chat for ideas on differentiating and scaffolding math centers. There was so much to cover that I had to break it down into 3 episodes!

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

Math Work Mats to Help Students Master 4th Grade Concepts

July 12, 2022 by Krejci Creations

When exploring a new topic, rarely will you see my students using their math workbooks. Instead, you’ll find them working with manipulatives, such as fraction tiles, place value discs, or unifix cubes. You may also see them writing in their math notebook or solving problems on math work mats. What exactly are math work mats, and why are they so effective?

Math Work Mats

Math work mats are guided templates and graphic organizers that guide students in learning math concepts. They can be used in a variety of ways, for instance, during a whole group lesson, independent practice, or as an accommodation for a test.

Students can glue them into interactive notebooks to keep as a reference or place them in dry-erase sleeves for multiple uses.

Regardless, the end goal is for students to solve problems without the support of the work mat. Therefore, work mats are structured to provide a gradual release of instruction.

The equivalent fractions and decimals work mats shown above are from my Fraction and Decimal Work Mat set with 10 work mats included. These work mats provide visual models and number lines to help students build conceptual understanding of fractions and decimals.

Another skill work mats do wonders for is long division. These work mats guide students on digit placement and help them align their numbers.

Click the button to try a FREE sample of my long division work mat collection!

Now, if the thought of long division makes you cringe, check out this BLOG POST with 8 helpful tips for teaching long division.

Tips for using math work mats

As I mentioned above, you can place work mats inside dry-erase sleeves and have students use Expo markers to solve problems. When possible, print them double-sided with the different levels provided.

The work mats I create and use have at least two levels. Once students understand the simpler problems on the front side, they can move on to more complex problems on the back.

Furthermore, give students the option of using a blank whiteboard at any time when they are ready.

Some students will be ready after just a few examples, while others will need more time before they can solve problems without the support of work mats.

Glue Math work mats in notebooks

In addition to placing them in dry-erase sleeves, work mats can also be glued into interactive notebooks. These mini mats become a reference page, or anchor chart, for students to refer back to. You can also print these as a poster to create a classroom anchor chart!

The Distributive Property work mat is a great reference tool for 4th graders as they learn more difficult multiplication strategies. Students also love to color, so incorporate this when you can. It helps them take ownership of their work and often makes math concepts more clear.

Storing work mats

I store my work mats in 3-ring binders and organize them by chapter. This system allows me to easily find what I need when planning and preparing materials. You will need a large number of dry erase sleeves to store all of your work mats, but it is worth it to not have to refill them each time!

Work mats are an effective resource that all teachers need in their toolboxes. Take a look at my collection of 4th grade work mats to help you get started!

Skills include:
✅ Rounding Whole Numbers
✅ 1-Digit Multiplication Strategies
✅ 2 by 2 Digit Multiplication
✅ 3 by 2 Digit Multiplication
✅ Long Division
✅ Factors, Multiples, and Prime & Composite Numbers
✅ Multiples of Fractions
✅ Subtracting Mixed Numbers with Renaming
✅ Fractions and Decimals
✅ Relating Angles, Degrees, and Fractions of a Circle
✅ Area and Perimeter

Until next time,
Happy Teaching!

-Annamarie

P.S. In case you missed it, grab your own copy of the FREE Long Division Work Mat!