AboutDebba Robinson Expertise I can answer questions about reading at all levels, English as a Second Language, elementary math, science and social studies as well as general education matters. Individuals interested in teaching in international schools can contact me for information on how to begin the process of looking for jobs overseas.
Experience I have been teaching for 30 years with a MEd in Reading and Language Arts, a BA in Elementary Education. For 6 years I taught computer to grades K-8. I have taught in combined grades (K-2 and 2-3 splits)in the US and overseas. The bulk of my elementary experience is in second and third grades, although I've taught K, 1, 2, 3 and 5 as a self-contained experience. Twenty-two years of my experience teaching has been in international schools in Africa and Asia.
Education/Credentials MEd. in Reading and Language Arts
BA in Elementary Education Certified principal K-12. Currently the director of the American International School of Niamey, Niger.
Question QUESTION: Hi, how do I teach patterns to first grade students?
ANSWER: Lori,
I need to be up front with you - this sounds like a homework question because most teacher training puts you through your paces on this sort of thing.
So, I want to begin by asking you if it is for an assignment. If it is, I'm happy to talk you through some things, but I will need to ask you questions to get you there. I won't spend a lot of time telling things that I do until I know what things you have already thought of to do.
If you are already a teacher, and are having problems, I strongly urge you to look at what your manuals tell you to do, as they will talk you through things you can do that will help your children learn the task.
Also, if you are already a teacher, and this is a pressing issue, please tell me what you have already tried that hasn't worked. I need many details.
I hope to hear back from you.
Debba
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QUESTION: I am a pre-intern. My directing teacher asked me to do a lesson on math/patterns. I have no idea though what first graders are doing with patterns. I don't know where to begin by teaching them something related to patterns. I have searched the internet but it seems like there is nothing out there.
Answer Hi, Lori - this is better ... knowing that up front will help you get answers from experts because if we SUSPECT it is a homework question, we are told to toss it out ... but if you are open about it, I think many will guide you.
Math books for small children often focus on patterns. You can go to a teacher store and find LOADS of materials ... if you have one nearby (so a search for 'teacher store' in your area and they may pop up). Or, go online and check out Specialty Supplies, or ABC supplies, ... again, 'teacher store' or 'teacher materials' in Google should locate something ... then, at their website, click on 'search' and look for 'patterns' and see what comes up.
Think REALLY simple ... like get the children to put blocks or some other small colored items in piles by color ... that is one kind of pattern.
Once they recognize their colors (you are also teaching them those), and can successfully do that, try it with shapes ... put all the same shapes together (circle, triangle, square to begin ... add in rectangles and trapezoids, etc. if they easily master the basics). You can always cut them out of paper.
Now you can begin setting up simple scenarios. Begin with all one color but 2 shapes ... or, 2 colors all the same shape. Make a pattern on the board of every other one ... after you have gone a ways, ask to see if anyone knows what comes next. If someone does, congratulate them. Let that child come put the next piece up. Ask again ... until everyone has a chance to be successful. If someone DOESN'T seem to know, don't wait too long ... either YOU tell him or ask him/her if he/she wants someone to 'help'. Then let him/her call on a classmate who seems to know.
Once they are successful as a group, put them in small groups and ask them to make similar patterns using two DIFFERENT colors or shapes.
Once they get that, you begin more variations. This time possibly 2,1,2,1,2,1 ... meaning 2 of one color/shape, one of another color or shape. Then 1,3,1,3 ... or 2,4,2,4, just begin to expand on it.
Now, that is the jumping off point ... see what you can do to begin to make it a 'little' more complex. With 6 year olds you will have some who can go VERY complex quite quickly - and others who will have difficulty grasping the concept at all, so plan for both levels and everything in between.
Make lessons to challenge those who are catching on quickly - and set up plans for extra practice for those who struggle.
Remember that patterns can be shapes, sizes, internal designs (boxes with stripes going diagonally or side to side - circles with dots and circles with stars, etc.).
