Calculators
What myth says “using calculators lowers math achievement”?
False — they can raise achievement when used correctly!)
What percent of daily math involves mental computation?
Over 80%
Define computational estimation
Finding an approximate answer mentally.
What region’s students excel in written computation and mental math?
Asian countries
Why is it important to balance mental and written computation?
Students need both for success in later math.
Why must students still think when using calculators?
They must enter correct operations; calculators don’t think for themselves.
Why is mental math important to teach?
It’s the most common way people do math in real life.
What is front-end estimation?
Using the first digit(s) and place value to estimate.
What do Asian math curricula emphasize early on?
Strong foundations in number sense and mental math.
Who should you consult before providing a calculator accommodation?
The special education teacher.
When is it appropriate to use a calculator in class?
When computation is tedious or time-consuming, not for simple mental math
What’s one way teachers can help students develop mental math skills?
Give frequent opportunities for mental math in class.
What are “compatible numbers”?
Numbers that work easily together for mental math.
Why does this foundation help students later in math?
It strengthens understanding of number relationships.
What classroom activity helps explain calculator use to parents?
Writing a letter home about its benefits.
What accommodations can include calculator use?
An IEP accommodation for SpEd students.
Give one reason mental math can be faster than written computation.
Because it avoids extra steps and uses number sense.
What is the clustering strategy?
Finding an average value and multiplying by number of items.
What can U.S. educators learn from Asian math practices?
To focus more on mental math and number sense
Why might some parents be confused about calculator use?
They didn’t use calculators in school and think it’s “cheating.”
True or False: Calculators should never be used in elementary classrooms.
False — students should learn proper use and care.
What is one example of mental math in daily life?
Estimating grocery totals, calculating tips... etc
When can estimation be used during problem-solving?
Before, during, and after computation to check reasonableness.
How does cultural emphasis on precision affect math success?
Students value accuracy and efficiency in computation.
What teaching strategy supports all learners in this lesson?
Differentiation and scaffolding of computation methods.