The practice of using number of the day in a grade 3 classroom can take on many variations in most elementary math classrooms. There are many ways students can show you what they know about place value and number sense using this practice.
I’ve always believed that using number of the day is a a great practice for teachers to get a snap shot of what their students can do, as well as a way to keep reviewing key concepts throughout the year.
Variations on Number of the day…
In the past I’ve used a variety of printable math worksheets for students to manipulate the number of the day, but then I felt guilty about the reams of paper I was using.
I then switched to a smart board version of the number of the day where students wrote out their answers in a notebook.
This worked well…I was able to instantly see which concepts students needed to work on as well as vary the questions…Then I had “computer issues” and decided to change things up again…
Now I use a plastic sheet protectors and have inserted a printed copy of the tasks I want them to do with their number of the day. The students were very excited to use their new “pompom” topped markers.
How I use my Number of the day…
At the beginning of each math class I ask three students to give me a digit. I then write out the 3 digit number on the white board as their “number of the day”.
Students then work on 10 tasks based on that number. It is so easy to simply change the questions based on what I want student to review as well as differentiate their questions.
I use this time to walk around helping students when/if needed.
Afterwards we discuss as a class any concepts in which students had common errors. This whole process usually takes anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes.
Why I really like using Number of the day…
I like the fact that I can differentiate the questions for students as well as change the inner printable sheet based on need. The students are also responsible for their markers, which is something I am working on with all my students…Respecting and caring for their belongings.
Want a Free Printable Math Number of the day?
Just tell me where to send it…
Here is a copy of the current Nombre du jour 1 my class in working on.
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