Improving Students’ Critical-Thinking Skills

through Mathematical Inquiry

Pamela Norris

What is critical thinking?

Attributes of a critical thinker:

asks pertinent questions assesses statements and arguments is able to admit a lack of understanding or

information has a sense of curiosity is interested in finding new solutions listens carefully to others and is able to give

feedback

Attributes of a critical thinker:(cont.) looks for evidence to support assumptions

and beliefs is able to adjust opinions when new facts are

found looks for proof examines problems closely is able to reject information that is incorrect or

irrelevant(Ferret, S. Peak Performance, 1997)

HOW?

CLASSROOM ROUTINES

Math Journals

Math Journal Rubric1. Correct answer

2. Draws picture to show answer

3. Writes an explanation of answer

1. Correct answer

2. Draws picture to show answer OR writes an explanation of answer

Correct answer only

Uh oh! I need more think time.

“Snip it & stick it”

SolveTed has 38 pieces of candy. He has 4 friends. If each friend gets the same amount, how many will each friend have? Will there be any left over?

Magic Number

Literature

Card Games

Daily Data Graphs

Calendar

Lunch Order

Wheel

How Many Pockets?

Estimation

Station

WHY?

Principles for School Mathematics

Equity PrincipleTeaching PrincipleLearning Principle

Assessment Principle

Equity Principle

Excellence in mathematics education requires equity-high expectations and strong support for all students.

Teaching Principle

Effective mathematics teaching requires understanding what students know and need to learn and then challenging and supporting them to learn it well.

Learning Principle

Students must learn mathematics with understanding, actively building new knowledge from experience and prior knowledge.

Assessment Principle

Assessment should support the learning of important mathematics and furnish useful information to both teachers and students.

Share &

Reflect