Chapter 9: Extending a Sense of Quantity with Larger Whole Numbers

       Although, I had been a school volunteer and have completed two practicums, receiving an explanation for grouping was helpful to increase my understanding of this practice.  The diagram explaining why grouping is done, and how it can help students opened my eyes to the larger picture. Now, I can certainly understand that grouping is helps students have a better concept of whole numbers. 

      The numeration principles section was well outlined. I especially appreciated the summary pertaining to the five numeration principles found on page 195.  The brief summary was helpful in rejuvenated my memory after reading the longer passages. Diagrams provided in addition to the readings, such as the 10-frame and unifix cube stacks were also beneficial in gaining a greater understanding of the principles. Indeed, all the diagrams provided with the five principles helped one to come away with a better understanding of how using similar tools such as craft sticks, counters, a hundreds chart and other manipulative used during Math can help us to provide greater insight that will improve our students’ understanding of these concepts. 

        I was pleased to read the section pertaining to common errors and misconceptions. Examples and strategies given would be especially helpful for new teachers. For example, how we can help children learn about 0? It had not occurred to me that 0 being included in a number such as 304 can be difficult for a young child to grasp. 

        Lastly, including the children’s book section serves as a reminder that we should incorporate Math into Language Arts, and other subjects.