C4Ta #2 Post #1 & Post #2

C4Ta Post #1
Summary of Authentic Learning- Connecting Literacy to Mathematics:
   
In the post, Authentic Learning- Connecting Literacy to Mathematics, Jennifer Brokofsky tells us that she recently listened to great teachers; I am assuming that she attended a conference. She talks about how the speakers reminded her that teaching is bliss if you engage students. The literacy teachers explained that when they are able to get children to read and write, they do so by giving them books that relate to them and that relate to their experiences. This way they enjoy what they are reading and what they write as well. Engaging students is powerful and can inspire students to become better at their tasks, making their work "authentic",  whatever those tasks may be.  Ms. Brokofsky, who serves as a mathematics teacher, also wonders how she can bring this "authentic" concept to her teaching in mathematics. She posed several questions to herself. Questions like, "How can students be engaged in their mathematics studies?" and "How can students enjoy and have a passion for mathematics?" She makes a statement that by changing how we teach and learn mathematics, methods should be more than just worksheets and questions from the text. She knows that making these changes are  possible and that all children are capable and deserving.

 Comment:
I do believe in "authentic" reading and writing,  I also believe that this same concept can be used in teaching mathematics. When you feel connected to what you are reading or doing, it is much easier to be engaged. You will also gain deeper knowledge about the subject and take that knowledge with you in the future. I also believe all children are capable and deserve a fair chance. I think that this is what makes her a great teacher. Teachers should have respect for the children they teach and they should inspire them to be the best they can be.

C4Ta Post #2
Summary of If You Give A Kid Some Cards They Will #PlayMath:

In this blog post, Ms. Brokofsky, explains how her love of playing card games has spilled over into her children's lives. They have grown to love it. She explains that allowing children to play card games will not only allow them to have fun and interact, but will enhance their mathematical abilities. She gives us the instructions of how to play three of her family favorites, which are:

• Chase the Ace
• Sticks - A game of sets and runs
• Uno

She also provides links to other interesting card games.
Check out these links at: Jennifer Brokofsky's Blog Page

Comment:
My family and I also love to play card games. I think it is something that will continue to be passed down from generation to generation. I do believe playing cards truly enhance your mathematical abilities. Playing cards gets the player to use more critical thinking and problem solving. It also enhances decision making, allowing the player to take the time to consider all the possibilities available to reach your goal. I think that letting the "little ones" play is a good way for children to learn number recognition and it will also help them start using addition and subtraction.