Clip 26/43: Standard 6: Attend to Precision Using Algebraic Equations Part 1C
Overview
Mathematically proficient students try to communicate precisely to others. They try to use clear definitions in discussion with others and in their own reasoning.
Disston creates opportunities for his students to use mathematical vocabulary for a purpose: “How do we pull the inequalities all together?” Students seem to puzzle over words for describing signs: there’s addition, subtraction, and other signs like equal. They understand that the difference is significant, but don’t know how to classify it. Their writing promotes further discussion and negotiation of the definitions.