Reasoning provides the opportunity for students to engage in mathematics in a thought-provoking and intellectual way.
Good teaching of reasoning involves embedding it in all mathematics classes. Like the other proficiencies (understanding, problem-solving and fluency), reasoning is at the heart of all mathematics learning and teaching.
Some key elements of good teaching of reasoning include:
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challenging all students to reason
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using effective questioning to prompt reasoning
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encouraging deep thinking
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making reasoning a routine element of every class
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making mathematical connections.
Reasoning for all students
Reasoning can provide a suitable intellectual challenge for all students.
Making mathematical connections
Research shows that the most effective mathematics teachers for developing students' reasoning are connectionists.