Information for Families
What is the Teaching Through Problem-solving (TTP) Curriculum?
This Teaching Through Problem-solving (TTP) Curriculum takes a discussion-based approach that nurtures critical thinking and equips students with lifelong learning skills. In TTP, students are encouraged to solve problems using their prior knowledge before being introduced to new math concepts. This method allows students to learn from their mistakes, fostering confidence by celebrating errors as valuable learning opportunities rather than punishing them.
LoiLo TTP Math curriculum is structured into five lesson types, each designed to bring students closer to mastering a specific concept. Throughout these lessons, students actively engage with their peers, embracing diverse perspectives and learning from one another. The discussion aspect of TTP is known as *Neriage*, a Japanese term meaning "kneading" or "combining." The goal of *Neriage* discussions is to provide students with the chance to share their thoughts, ask questions, and explore multiple ways to solve a single problem. This process not only enhances their understanding but also develops their fluency in discussing and listening to different math concepts.
Support for Students
Review Routine: Each lesson begins with a review of classmates' reflections from previous lessons, followed by a short anonymous quiz to refresh prior knowledge.
Investigation: Students engage in an investigation designed to awaken their critical thinking skills and introduce them to a new concept they haven't yet learned.
Exercises: Throughout each lesson, students work on exercises that support their mastery of the concept. They are encouraged to explore multiple methods to solve each exercise.
Summary and Reflection: At the end of each lesson, students receive a summary of what they’ve learned and have the opportunity to articulate their understanding in a reflection, helping to reinforce their fluency with the concept.
My Math Note (MMN): Students can record their investigations, ideas, peer contributions, and reflections on digital note cards. These notes are stored in the cloud-based desktop for easy access and review.
Interactive Tools: The cloud-based desktop offers a variety of interactive tools, including options for typing, drawing, critical thinking, digital manipulatives, and a math-specific keyboard.
How Can Students Succeed?
Expressing thoughts, strategies, and ideas in a mathematical setting can be challenging, especially when students are accustomed to learning math through a single method. The LoiLo TTP Math Curriculum challenges this traditional approach by encouraging students to choose the math solution that best suits their individual thinking.
Students are urged to share their thoughts, whether they are uncertain or confident. Every contribution is valued, and critical thinking in all forms is celebrated. Success in this curriculum comes from the willingness to try solving problems, even when the solution isn’t immediately clear. Participation in discussions is crucial for developing critical thinking skills.
How You Can Encourage Your Student:
It’s Okay Not to Know: Encourage your child to try different approaches when they don’t know how to solve a problem. Ask them what they already know or if they can draw a picture to represent the problem.
Celebrate Mistakes: Remind your child that mistakes are an excellent teacher, and perseverance should be celebrated.
Encourage Idea Sharing: Help your child feel comfortable sharing their ideas, whether related to math or daily life. Critical thinking about any challenge enhances their problem-solving skills and confidence. You can say, “There’s no right or wrong answer; I just want to hear your ideas.”
Practice Active Listening: Students learn a lot from listening to others. Encourage your child to summarize or repeat an idea they’ve heard from someone else. Show them how to practice active listening with eye contact, still hands, and facing the speaker.
We are excited to support your child’s learning journey and believe that the lessons they learn in LoiLo TTP Math will help them excel in all aspects of their education.