Power Thinking with Dr. Ling – Patterning in Math

CSC Evaluation Recommendation:

Description

Author :  Dr. Charles Ling
Power Thinking with Dr. Ling , 2003
Video - VHS, cardboard sleeve; Teacher resource book - 53 pages + blackline masters (licensed product)

Grades : 4-8
Concepts :  Patterning strategies, math, math strategies, thinking strategies, patterns, problem solving
Subject :  Mathematics

CSC Evaluation

Curriculum Correlation
Power Thinking with Dr. Ling – Patterning in Math supports the Patterning and Algebra strand of the Mathematics curriculum in Grades 4 to 8.

Content
The resource consists of a video and a teacher resource book that contains activities and tests. The material provides strong support to students in identifying and describing patterns. Real-life examples of patterns are used and examined. This resource provides teachers with direct instructional support for concepts involving patterning, e.g., strategies to help students develop the skills that can be applied to patterns in math.

Methodology
The resource is clearly and effectively focused on problem-solving, stimulates high-level thinking, and provides understandable strategies and techniques (e.g., Analyze the Problem, Guess and Check, Divide and Conquer) that allow all students to have fun and success with patterning in math. The strategies and tips are developed coherently and applied consistently. The resource provides opportunities for students to share and communicate strategies and encourages them to look for more than one solution to problems. The resource builds effectively upon prior concept attainment, supporting developmental and incremental learning. Problems introduced in early activities are re-examined in later activities so that students can apply recently learned strategies. Suggestions for enrichment are provided.

Assessment
The three tests that are included are well targeted to the learning. While there are no connections made to achievement levels or to assessing application and problem-solving, these can easily be identified by the teacher.

Format
The print and video resources are both required for a full exploration and understanding of the concepts. The video uses language and examples that are understandable and relevant for students in elementary school. The format used throughout the video consists of Dr. Ling speaking with three students using a laptop computer. The print resource is clearly written.

Bias
The resource is presented from a balanced perspective.

Review Recommendation
Power Thinking with Dr. Ling – Patterning in Math is recommended to support the Patterning and Algebra strand of the Mathematics curriculum in Grades 4 to 8.

Contact Information

Dr. Charles Ling
Power Thinking with Dr. Ling
519-438-1623
e-mail: dr_charles_ling@yahoo.com
http://www.powerthinking.org

Read the publisher's description of this resource


Note: These learning resources are recommended by Curriculum Services Canada. However, such a recommendation is of the resource only and should not be construed as a general recommendation of the developer of such a resource or the developer's business or related activities. While CSC recommends a resource on pedagogical grounds, the end user is fully responsible for its use.

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