Math Journals

Math Journals, or problem solving notebooks are a great way to get students writing about their mathematical thinking.  They are also especially effective for giving you a glimpse into their problem solving process.

I use math journals almost daily in my class and often start with this strategy to help my students more coherently explain their thinking.

Teaching 4th grade in Nevada means teaching the dreaded constructed response math questions for our state test.  One thing that I have been trying in my class that has been very successful is the making a MESS model for problem solving.

As you can see from the anchor chart the MESS acronym stands for:

M - Model

E - Equation

S- Solution

S- Sentence

The students learn to use the acronym to help them set up a written response to a math problem so that they not only know where to start, but also all of the parts to include.  It is really easy to remember and they LOVE the idea of being encouraged to "Make a Mess".

I started my students off with the anchor chart above, then gave them my math journals which are set up using this method, and include 4 math prompts for each standard.  I print out the ones that my students need to work on most and place them in a folder for math journal time.

This student started to divide the given numbers (963/10) but then raised her hand and asked if she could round first.  I told her, "Try it!" 

The students become better and better at writing responses as we share methods and responses throughout the year.  Towards the end of the year in preparation for testing, I start giving them prompts without the model to guide them.  After working with the MESS model all year, they know what to do, and are better prepared. I really emphasize perseverance and trying things out before raising their hands to ask for help.  I compare it to a video game.  I say, "If you don't pass a level on a video game, you don't call me up and ask for help, you try something different, you persevere until you figure it out.  That is exactly what mathematicians do!"

I have been blown away by some of the feedback

that I have received!

Grade Level Math Journals Available:

1st Grade Math Journal

2nd Grade Math Journal

3rd Grade Math Journal

4th Grade Math Journal

5th Grade Math Journal



6th Grade Math Journal
 

Here are a few links with sample constructed response questions

http://tn.gov/education/assessment/ConstructedResponseAssessment.shtml

http://www.sandi.net/cms/lib/CA01001235/Centricity/Domain/217/Math%20Documents/Archives%20K-5/Grade%204%20Modules%201-10%20Response%20Guides.pdf

http://www.opi.mt.gov/PDF/Assessment/CRT/RI/07/07Gr3MathCR.pdf

I also have a Pinterest Board where I pin Math Journal Ideas.

I am linking up with Fourth Grade Flipper for Tried It Tuesday.  Head over there for some other amazing ideas, or to share something you have tried recently!

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission each time someone makes a purchase using one of my links, which helps to support the blog.  All opinions are my own and I only promote brands and products that I have used myself and truly love.  

 I would love to hear from you! ❤️

Have a question? Idea for a resource you might find helpful?

Be so kind and leave a comment below.