Summary and Synthesize

This class has brought forth new ideas for dealing with fractions and the explanation of why certain techniques are used. I knew how to work with fractions but when asked in class I was not sure why I was doing some of the things that I was doing to solve fractions. I even answered some questions with “because they told me to”. Discussions in class helped me to realize that I need to know why certain rules exist and that sometimes you can come up with your own method that will work. I knew to find the LCM when adding and subtracting fractions but I never knew why that was the way to do it. Working the different manipulatives in class helped me to learn why we use that process. I know now that having students work through these different ideas on their own is important because then they will understand a concept better. I do believe that working through these methods has helped to improve my understanding and my belief that I can help others understand. I am worried that I may not be positive of the best methods to teach with the manipulatives.