Math Workshop Essentials: Developing Number Sense Through Routines, Focus Lessons, and Learning Stations

No matter what state standards or textbook you are using to guide your teaching of mathematics, this resource gives you a spectrum of ways to foster number sense in grades 3–5. You’ll find:
innovative, classroom-tested routines (including number talks), focus lessons, and games; step-by-step directions; vignettes that describe actual occurrences of each activity being taught;  an exploration of the four features integral to developing number sense; and connections to the mathematical practices to help teachers envision them in action.
 

Rusty Bresser is a lecturer and supervisor of teacher education at the University of California at San Diego. He has been an educator for more than thirty-five years and is interested in issues of equity and social justice in the areas of mathematics and science education. Rusty is the author of numerous professional learning articles and books. He is a recipient of the Barbara and Paul Saltman Distinguished Teaching Award. 

Caren Holtzman teaches in the Department of Education Studies at the University of California at San Diego and is the Director of UCSD’s Partners At Learning (PAL) Program. Prior to arriving at UCSD, Caren was an elementary classroom teacher for ten years. Caren is the author of several children’s books and math resource books for teachers. She is a recipient of the Barbara and Paul Saltman Distinguished Teaching Award.
 

Review: The lessons, routines, and strategies in this outstanding resource support exactly the kind of teaching we need in our classrooms to build students’ number sense and overall confidence in math. I will be putting it in the hands of every teacher in my district! —Andy Johnsen, Superintendent Lakeside Union School District, Lakeside, California

Review: When we know better, we do better. And the ideas in Bresser and Holtzman’s resource help us all know better by providing us practical activities to do with students. —Jennifer Lempp, author  Math Workshop: Five Steps to Implementing Guided Math, Learning Stations, Reflection, and More

Review: This resource has positively influenced me as a math tutor and a supervisor of math practicum students at the university level. The authors have provided powerful mathematical content while thoughtfully guiding educators to engage students in meaningful mathematical conversations. It’s outstanding! —Vicki Bachman, math tutor and adjunct professor University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa

Review: Rusty and Caren’s thoughtful and inspiring lesson designs provide highly accessible and motivating support to my math teachers. The activities offer rich examples for engaging a full range of learners in thinking and talking about mathematics. —Kathleen Gallagher, principal Baker Elementary School, San Diego, California

Review: Clear and accessible, this resource gently encourages us to be reflective in our math teaching. What I like most about the resource is that it centers on teacher and student thinking and discussion in a way that brings the classroom to life. Whether you are just starting out in teaching or a seasoned professional, you don’t want to miss this wonderful resource! —Edwin Mayorga, assistant professor of educational studies Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Review: This resource illustrates the importance of developing number sense in children and offers engaging, easy-to-follow lessons that deepen student understanding and empower young mathematicians. —Mary Ann Warrington, math specialist and coach Stuart Hall for Boys, San Francisco, California