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Full-Text Articles in Science and Mathematics Education
Using Relearning Groups To Help All Students Understand Learning Objectives Before Tests, Katie Pease
Using Relearning Groups To Help All Students Understand Learning Objectives Before Tests, Katie Pease
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my 8th grade algebra class, I investigated placing students in relearning groups based on learning objectives. A learning objective is what a learner should be able to do by the end of a learning experience. I was trying to see how this affected test scores, anxiety in the classroom and on tests, and how it affected my teaching. Overall, I discovered that the relearning groups were beneficial. Many students stated the extra practice helped them perform better and feel slightly less nervous than they originally had before a test. I did not discover the …
Cooperative Learning In Relation To Problem Solving In The Mathematics Classroom, Shelley Poore
Cooperative Learning In Relation To Problem Solving In The Mathematics Classroom, Shelley Poore
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 5th grade mathematics, I investigated cooperative learning and how it is related to problem solving as well as written and oral communication. I discovered that cooperative learning has a positive impact on students’ abilities in problem solving and their overall impression of mathematics and group work. I also found that my students’ communication skills improved in oral explanations of their work. As a result of this research I plan to continue my implementation of cooperative learning in my classroom as a general method of teaching. I also plan to continue to …
How Student Self-Assessment Influences Mastery Of Objectives, Jeremy John Renfro
How Student Self-Assessment Influences Mastery Of Objectives, Jeremy John Renfro
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 7th grade students, enrolled in Pre- Algebra (an 8th grade course), I investigated: rate of homework completion when not taken as part of the academic grade, cognizant self-assessment and its affect on mastery of objectives, and use of self-assessment to guide instruction and re-teaching of classroom objectives. I learned that without sufficient accountability homework completion rates drop with time. Similarly, students can be overconfident in their abilities but unmoved when their summative reports do not match their initial perceived formative benchmarks. Finally, due in part to our society’s reactive nature; students …
Homework: Is There More To It Than Answers?, Shelly Sehnert
Homework: Is There More To It Than Answers?, Shelly Sehnert
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my two high school geometry classrooms, I investigated the use of homework. By changing the focus on homework away from the answers to the process involved in getting the answers, I found that students felt more confident, utilized their class time better, and placed more effort on complex problems. Their questions also became more specific and more effective for finding gaps in their understanding. As a result of this research, I plan to change my strategy in the practice of homework. I will give students the answers on multi-step problems to allow them the …
Calculators In A Middle School Mathematics Classroom: Helpful Or Harmful?, Leah Wilcox
Calculators In A Middle School Mathematics Classroom: Helpful Or Harmful?, Leah Wilcox
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of eighth grade mathematics, I investigated the use of calculators. Specifically, I wanted to know the answer to three questions. I wanted to know more about what would happen to my students’ ability to recall basic math facts, their ability to communicate mathematically during problem solving, and their attitude when my students were or were not permitted to use their calculator. I discovered that in my research, I did not find enough evidence to either support or reject my initial hypotheses, that calculators largely influenced my students’ behavior, and also that my …
Rubric Assessment Of Mathematical Processes In Homework, Aubrey Weitzenkamp
Rubric Assessment Of Mathematical Processes In Homework, Aubrey Weitzenkamp
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 11th grade geometry, I investigated the use of rubrics to help me assess my students during homework presentations. I wanted to know more about the processes students went through as they did their homework problems, so homework presentations were implemented with the rubrics being the main form of assessment. I discovered that students are willing to speak about mathematics and can gain more understanding of mathematical processes as a result of homework presentations. The scores of the class improved after they talked about the homework assignments with each other. As a …
Building Confidence In Low Achievers Through Building Mathematics Vocabulary, Val Adams
Building Confidence In Low Achievers Through Building Mathematics Vocabulary, Val Adams
Action Research Projects
In this action research study, I investigated the use of vocabulary strategies and the effectiveness of the strategies in building confidence in low achievers. My subjects were twenty-three eighth grade mathematics students. They were introduced to vocabulary activities and then were asked to use them in class through the use of note-taking graphic organizers, group class discussion, and partner work. I assessed their confidence and use of vocabulary through a pre and post survey, class work, notebook checks, and student interviews. I discovered that the use of vocabulary strategies built the confidence and increased the achievement of my students. As …
Rap (Reasoning And Proof) Journals: I Am Here, Bryce Schwanke
Rap (Reasoning And Proof) Journals: I Am Here, Bryce Schwanke
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 5th grade mathematics, I investigated writing in a journal as formative assessment. I also investigated how elementary age students would be able to utilize the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) process standard reasoning and proof. Using the Houghton Mifflin (2005) textbook and curriculum I discovered that writing reasons and proof as a formative assessment in a mathematics journal is a good way to teach mathematics. Having students solve math problems during the closure portion of each math lesson does a good job of holding students accountable for the math …
Oral Presentation: Exploring Oral Presentations Of Homework Problems As A Means Of Assessing Homework
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my freshmen Algebra I class, I investigated a method of assessing homework based on completion and presentations. When I changed the method of grading from checking answers to looking for completion and presentation of selected problems, I found that the majority of the students enjoyed the method because it allowed them to explore other methods of solving and helped them gain an understanding of the problems. This resulted in less stress on obtaining “the” answer. I also realized that I viewed homework differently and had a better understanding of the students’ thought processes, which …
Does Decoding Increase Word Problem Solving Skills?, Jalena J. Clement
Does Decoding Increase Word Problem Solving Skills?, Jalena J. Clement
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 7th grade mathematics, I investigated whether the use of decoding would increase the students’ ability to problem solve. I discovered that knowing how to decode a word problem is only one facet of being a successful problem solver. I also discovered that confidence, effective instruction, and practice have an impact on improving problem solving skills. Because of this research, I plan to alter my problem solving guide that will enable it to be used by any classroom teacher. I also plan to keep adding to my math problem solving clue words …
Confidence In Communication: Can My Whole Class Achieve This?, Emily Lashley
Confidence In Communication: Can My Whole Class Achieve This?, Emily Lashley
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of Algebra 2 students, I investigated the confidence levels and communication skills of these students. I discovered that students who have higher confidence levels are comfortable in their classroom situations. The students with increased levels of confidence also have more open communication with those they respect. As a result of this research, I plan to continue with the implementation of communication skills. I will also look to next school year as a place to start executing a plan to be more available and involved in the active learning process of my students.
Homework Presentations: Are They Worth The Time?, Kacy Heiser
Homework Presentations: Are They Worth The Time?, Kacy Heiser
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my eighth grade mathematics classroom, I investigated the use of daily homework presentations and how they impacted students’ written and oral reasoning, students’ attitudes towards mathematics homework and students’ grades and completion of mathematics homework. I discovered that implementing daily homework presentations had no influence on students’ grades or attitudes towards mathematics homework, however students did find homework presentations useful in helping them to better understand the mathematics they were learning. Students’ written and oral reasoning were increased through daily homework presentations as well. By requiring students to not only present daily homework problems, …
Perceptions Of Math Homework: Exploring The Connections Between Written Explanations And Oral Presentations And The Influence On Students’ Understanding Of Math Homework, Kyla Hall
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my fifth grade mathematics classroom, I investigated how homework presentations combined with written explanations of math homework influenced students’ understanding of math concepts and perceptions of math homework. I discovered that my students really do not like homework but they do believe that homework has a purpose. I also found that my students’ test scores were slightly higher when they had written about and presented a particular math concept. Finally, as a teacher I learned that my students can interact in a positive way and teach each other math, so I do not always …
Reading As A Learning Strategy For Mathematics, Monte Else
Reading As A Learning Strategy For Mathematics, Monte Else
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of 55 sophomore and junior students in my Algebra II/Trigonometry classrooms, I investigated a reading strategy of learning mathematics. Students were given background information about reading and explored the benefits of reading for themselves. Next, students were taught to read their textbook, analyzing one section of the textbook at a time. Throughout the research project, students were given reading guides to fill out during class with whole class discussion following the reading time. I discovered that students are able to read a mathematics textbook with understanding and students who are gone for activities can learn …
Written Solutions Of Mathematical Word Problems, Marcia J. Smith
Written Solutions Of Mathematical Word Problems, Marcia J. Smith
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of ten ninth grade algebra students, I investigated how my students expressed written solutions of mathematical word problems. I discovered that my students writing and performance improved as they experienced different strategies to attack problem solving. These experiences helped improve the confidence of my students in their problem solving skills and in their mathematical writing. I also discovered that my teaching style changed, as my students took on more responsibility for their learning. As a result of this research, I plan to implement problem solving activities in all my classrooms next year. …
The Importance Of Teaching Students How To Read To Comprehend Mathematical Language, Tricia Buchanan
The Importance Of Teaching Students How To Read To Comprehend Mathematical Language, Tricia Buchanan
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 8th and 9th grade Algebra I students, I investigated if there are any benefits for the students in my class to learn how to read, translate, use, and understand the mathematical language found daily in their math lessons. I discovered that daily use and practice of the mathematical language in both written and verbal form, by not only me but by my students as well, improved their understanding of the textbook instructions, increased their vocabulary and also increased their understanding of their math lessons. I also found that my students remembered …
The Effects Improving Student Discourse Has On Learning Mathematics, Lindsey Thompson
The Effects Improving Student Discourse Has On Learning Mathematics, Lindsey Thompson
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my 8th grade mathematics classroom, I investigated how improving student discourse affects learning mathematics. I conducted this study because I wanted to give students more opportunities to develop and share their ideas with their peers as well as with me. My idea was to create a learning environment that encouraged students to voice their opinions. In order to do so, I needed to reassure and model with my students that they were in a classroom where it was safe to take risks, and they should feel comfortable sharing their ideas. By facilitating activities for …
Effects Of Self-Assessment On Math Homework, Diane Swartzlander
Effects Of Self-Assessment On Math Homework, Diane Swartzlander
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my eighth grade differentiated Algebra students, I investigated the effects of students using self-assessment on their homework. Students in my class were unmotivated and failed test objectives consistently. I wanted students to see that they controlled their learning and could be motivated to succeed. Formative assessment tells students how they need to improve. Learning needs to happen before they can be assessed. Self-assessment is one tool that helps students know if they are learning. A rubric scoring guide, daily documentation sheet and feedback on homework and test correlations were used to help students monitor …
Calculators In The Classroom: Help Or Hindrance?, Christina L. Sheets
Calculators In The Classroom: Help Or Hindrance?, Christina L. Sheets
Action Research Projects
In a world where technology is ever present and ever changing, is too much technology at too young of an age detrimental to a child’s educational success? The purpose of this paper is to share the results of a four-month study that focused on the use of calculators in grade eight. This study was conducted in an eighth grade class, in a small kindergarten through twelfth grade school. This paper will share the findings of a study of a classroom in which calculator use was limited and mental computation was emphasized. The main focus of this study was whether or …
Improving Students’ Story Problem Solving Abilities, Josh Severin
Improving Students’ Story Problem Solving Abilities, Josh Severin
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 8th grade mathematics students, I investigated if learning different problem solving strategies helped students successfully solve problems. I also investigated if students’ knowledge of the topics involved in story problems had an impact on students’ success rates. I discovered that students were more successful after learning different problem solving strategies and when given problems with which they have experience. I also discovered that students put forth a greater effort when they approach the story problem like a game, instead of just being another math problem that they have to solve. An …
Understanding The Mathematical Language, Carmen Melliger
Understanding The Mathematical Language, Carmen Melliger
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my calculus classroom consisting of only 12th grade students, I investigated activities that would affect a student’s understanding of mathematical language. The goal in examining these activities in a systematic way was to see if a student’s deeper understanding of math terms and symbols resulted in a better understanding of the mathematical concepts being taught. I discovered that some students will rise to the challenge of understanding mathematics more deeply, and some will not. In the process of expecting more from students, the frustration level of both the students and the teacher increased. As …
Pre-Reading Mathematics Empowers Students, Stacey Aldag
Pre-Reading Mathematics Empowers Students, Stacey Aldag
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my 8th grade mathematics classroom, I investigated the improvement of mathematical communication via assigning pre-reading material and requiring students to take notes prior to class discussions. I discovered that students became more active participants during classroom discussions and were able to produce work which illustrated their mathematical understanding. Teacher observations and improved quiz scores provide quantitative evidence, and student survey responses validate student communication. As a result of this research, I plan to assign pre-reading tasks and require students to take notes prior to class discussions with the goal to change classroom presentation from …
Generating Interest In Mathematics Using Discussion In The Middle School Classroom, Jessica Fricke
Generating Interest In Mathematics Using Discussion In The Middle School Classroom, Jessica Fricke
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 8th grade algebra, I investigated students’ discussion of mathematics and how it relates to interest in the subject. Discussion is a powerful tool in the classroom. By relying too heavily on drill and practice, a teacher may lose any individual student insight into the learning process. However, in order for the discussion to be effective, students must be provided with structure and purpose. It is unrealistic to expect middle school age students to provide their own structure and purpose; a packet was constructed that would allow the students to both show …
“Let’S Review.” A Look At The Effects Of Re-Teaching Basic Mathematic Skills, Thomas J. Harrington
“Let’S Review.” A Look At The Effects Of Re-Teaching Basic Mathematic Skills, Thomas J. Harrington
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 8th grade mathematics, I investigated the effect of reviewing basic fraction and decimal skills on student achievement and student readiness for freshman Algebra. I also investigated the effect on the quality of student work, with regards to legibility by having students grade each other’s work anonymously. I discovered that students need basic skill review with fractions and decimals, and by the end of the research their scores improved. However, their handwriting had not. At the end of the research, a majority of the students felt the review was important, and they …
Improving Student Engagement And Verbal Behavior Through Cooperative Learning, Daniel Schaben
Improving Student Engagement And Verbal Behavior Through Cooperative Learning, Daniel Schaben
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 10th grade Algebra II students, I investigated three related areas. First, I looked at how heterogeneous cooperative groups, where students in the group are responsible to present material, increase the number of students on task and the time on task when compared to individual practice. I noticed that their time on task might have been about the same, but they were communicating with each other mathematically. The second area I examined was the effect heterogeneous cooperative groups had on the teacher’s and the students’ verbal and nonverbal problem solving skills and …
Do Students Progress If They Self-Assess? A Study In Small-Group Work, Cindy Steinkruger
Do Students Progress If They Self-Assess? A Study In Small-Group Work, Cindy Steinkruger
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 8th grade mathematics, I investigated the effects of self-assessment on student group work. Data was collected to see how self-assessment affected small-group work, usage of precise mathematical vocabulary, and student attitudes toward mathematics. Self-assessment allowed the students to periodically evaluate their own learning and their involvement in math class. I discovered that the vast majority of students enjoy working in small-groups, and they feel they are good group members. Evidence in regard to use of precise mathematical vocabulary showed an increased awareness in the importance of its usage. Student attitudes toward …
Why Are We Writing? This Is Math Class!, Shana Streeks
Why Are We Writing? This Is Math Class!, Shana Streeks
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my classroom of 8th grade mathematics, I investigated writing in the content area. I have realized how important it is for students to be able to communicate mathematical thoughts to help gain a deeper understanding of the content. As a result of this research, I plan to enforce the use of writing thoughts and ideas regarding math problems. Writers develop skills and generate new thoughts and ideas every time they sit down to write. Writing evolves and grows with ongoing practice, and that means thinking skills mature along with it. Writing is a classroom …
Improving The Effectiveness Of Independent Practice With Corrective Feedback, Greg Vanderbeek
Improving The Effectiveness Of Independent Practice With Corrective Feedback, Greg Vanderbeek
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my 8th grade Algebra class, I investigated the effects of teacher-to-student written corrective feedback on student performance and attitude toward mathematics. The corrective feedback was given on solutions for selected independent practice problems assigned as homework. Each problem being assessed was given a score based on a 3- point rubric and additional comments were written. I discovered that providing teacher-to-student written corrective feedback for independent practice problems was beneficial for both students and teachers. The feedback positively affected the attitudes of students and teacher toward independent practice work resulting in an improved quality of …
Increasing Conceptual Learning Through Student Participation, Janet Timoney
Increasing Conceptual Learning Through Student Participation, Janet Timoney
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of my 9th grade Algebra I classroom, I investigated the idea of presenting problems at the beginning of class. Data was collected to determine if presenting problems at the beginning of class would have an effect on students’ conceptual learning, verbal communication and confidence. It was also my intention that this project would have a positive impact on my students both academically and mentally with increasing their confidence with mathematical problems. I discovered that presenting problems at the beginning of class did impact my students’ overall abilities and achievement. It seemed to improve their volunteerism …
Increasing Teacher Involvement With Other Teachers Through Reflective Interaction, Tina Thompson
Increasing Teacher Involvement With Other Teachers Through Reflective Interaction, Tina Thompson
Action Research Projects
In this action research study of a district’s mathematics teachers, the researcher investigated how teachers interact with other teachers in their building and throughout the district. The researcher wanted to know how deeply teachers thought about teaching mathematics, and if they use other teachers in the district as a resource to help with unknown math problems. The researcher discovered that some teachers are willing to interact with others, but would like to have time supplied to them during the school year’s staff development meetings. The teachers involved were able to observe each other teaching and take valuable strategies back to …