Math writing notebooks give students a place to record their thinking, solve problems, and show their mathematical understanding. Teaching students how to use and organize these notebooks helps establish routines they can follow independently throughout the year.
In this classroom video, a third-grade teacher gathers students to review four simple expectations for their math writing notebooks:
- Keep it focused on math. Include mathematical thinking, problems, sketches, and representations that support learning.
- Write neatly. Make sure the work is easy for the student, teacher, and others to read.
- Date each entry. Write the date once at the beginning of each day's work.
- Use the next available page. Keep entries in order so work is easy to find and revisit.
As students ask questions, notice how the teacher clarifies expectations while allowing flexibility. For example, students may choose whether to write on both sides of a page or begin fresh on the next page. The essential expectation is that their notebook stays organized and focused on math.
Notice and Reflect
As you watch, pay attention to how the teacher:
- Makes expectations visible and reviews them in student-friendly language.
- Keeps the number of expectations manageable and easy to remember.
- Invites student questions to clarify what the expectations look like in practice.
- Distinguishes between essential expectations and areas where students can make their own choices.
- Reinforces the routine by inviting students to apply what they've learned during the next day's practice.
Consider: What simple expectations would help your students use their math notebooks independently? Which expectations need to be consistent, and where can you offer students flexibility?
