Introduction

17. When I assess students’ knowledge and skills, I:consider the various needs of the students in the class;give students opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and skills in a variety of ways;use assessment tools that are familiar to students (i.e., the nature andpurpose of the tool have been clearly explained to them, as have the skills required to performthe tasks involved or to answer the questions);use assessment tools that conform to the requirements of equity ineducation;accommodate students who require extra time or who would benefit from simpler or moredetailed explanations.18. The displays I use in my classroom:reflect cultural diversity;are gender-balanced;include labels in languages other than English, as needed;reflect a range of abilities/disabilities.19. In my classroom, the study of mathematics invites:questioning and inquiry;independent thinking;the natural application of graphs and charts in the study of research data taken from aroundthe world.20.When recognizing the accomplishments of students in class, I includerecognition and celebration of:their successes;improvements in their work;the effort they make to improve their work;their commitment to learning mathematics;their motivation to learn.21. The language that I use with students:is encouraging, positive, and supportive;conveys the belief that all students have the potential and ability to learn math;reflects high expectations of all students.40 A Guide to Effective Instruction in Mathematics, Kindergarten to Grade 6 – Volume One