Learning about Area, Perimeter, and Fractions with and from Peers

Communicating About Division

The video episode in this clip shows a different classroom than in the last clip, but the situation is similar -- students are also working in small groups. In this small group the students are discussing how to divide 6 objects among 4 people. While you are watching, notice how the group members listen to each other.

Focus Questions What are the characteristics of a classroom environment that would support this type of interaction between students? What can you, as a teacher, do to encourage your students to learn with and from their peers in this manner?

Reflection Questions Return to the video and watch it again. This time, pay close attention to the mathematical explanation the student is giving. Is it mathematically correct? Some people would argue that a "danger" of letting students work in groups is that "wrong" mathematics is learned. What argument would you make about this subject? How would you support your argument

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