Routledge Using Children's Literature to Teach Problem Solving in Math: Addressing the Standards for Mathematical Practice in K–5

Learn how children’s literature can help K–5 students see the real-life applications of mathematical concepts. This user-friendly book shows how to use stories to engage students in building critical reasoning, abstract thinking, and communication skills, all while helping students understand the relevance of math in their everyday lives. Each chapter is dedicated to one of the eight Standards for Mathematical Practice, and offers examples of children’s literature that can be used to help students develop that practice. You’ll find out how to: Encourage students to persevere in solving mathematical problems and use multiple approaches to find the answer; Help students reason abstractly with the aid of concrete objects and visuals; Guide students in constructing arguments to explain their reasoning and engage in critical discussion with their peers; Teach students to recognize mathematical patterns and use them to solve problems efficiently; And more! The book offers activities for beginners as well as for more advanced problem solvers. Each chapter also provides guidance for ELLs and students with special needs, so no matter your classroom environment, you’ll be able to use these strategies to make math class more dynamic, engaging, and fun. Review “The entire time I was reading this, I thought of the various ways that I could bring this resource into our district. I love how it breaks it down easily and explains how to embed the SMP and strategies into the everyday language of the classroom. The use of the book is almost scripted, allowing the teacher easy entry into the practice standard.”  --Aubrey Carpenter, Instructional Math Coach, Danville District 118, Danville, Illinois “This book helps students make connections with children’s literature and the Mathematical Practices. The author provides examples of specific stories and related activities to encourage problem solving and real-life application. Each chapter presents an in-depth look at one of the eight Mathematical Practices, offering fun, engaging challenges for all students. The directions and questions provide teachers with easy access to complex processes and proficiencies such as perseverance, critical thinking, and abstract reasoning. If you want to help your students develop a positive mathematical mindset, you should add this resource to your collection!” –Jennifer Taylor-Cox, Educational Consultant and Author of Math Intervention P-2 and Math Intervention 3-5 "This is an inspirational and motivating way of approaching problem solving in contemporary mathematics education...Although the picturebook market is vast and rich, teachers do not often come across recommendations for about 50 mathematics picturebooks in one book, accompanied by didactical comments and guides on how to use these picturebooks in mathematics education.The book Using Children’s Literature to Teach Problem Solving in Math helps fill this gap."-Dubravka Glasnović Gracin, Libri & Liberi About the Author Jeanne White has been an educator since 1992 when she began teaching elementary school in the south suburbs of Chicago. She is currently a Professor of Education at Elmhurst College.