Sentence Starters

Definition

Sentence starters are phrases or words used to begin a statement or response in a discussion or writing, particularly in mathematics. They help students express their thoughts clearly, promote engagement, and facilitate mathematical communication and argumentation among peers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sentence starters encourage students to articulate their thinking and reasoning, making it easier for them to participate in discussions.
2. Using sentence starters can help create a more inclusive classroom environment by providing language support for students who might struggle with expressing their ideas.
3. They can also help guide the flow of conversation, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to share their insights and questions.
4. In mathematics, effective sentence starters can help clarify complex ideas and assist in building logical arguments based on evidence.
5. Teachers can model sentence starters during instruction to demonstrate their use and importance in mathematical discourse.

Review Questions

• How do sentence starters facilitate mathematical communication among students?
  • Sentence starters facilitate mathematical communication by providing students with structured ways to express their thoughts and ideas. They help students articulate their reasoning clearly, making it easier to engage in discussions about mathematical concepts. This structure is particularly helpful for students who may struggle with formulating responses on their own, allowing everyone to participate in conversations and share different viewpoints.
• In what ways can using sentence starters improve the quality of argumentation in mathematics classrooms?
  • Using sentence starters can improve the quality of argumentation by encouraging students to present their claims backed by reasoning and evidence. When students start their sentences with phrases like 'I believe that...' or 'This is because...', they learn to construct more coherent arguments. This practice not only enhances their critical thinking skills but also fosters a culture of respectful debate, where ideas can be discussed and challenged effectively.
• Evaluate the impact of sentence starters on student engagement and collaboration during mathematical discussions.
  • The impact of sentence starters on student engagement and collaboration is significant. By providing a framework for expression, sentence starters make it easier for all students to participate actively in discussions. This inclusivity promotes a sense of belonging and encourages collaborative learning as students feel more confident sharing their ideas. As they communicate their thoughts more freely, students learn from each other, which enhances understanding and retention of mathematical concepts.

Related terms

Argumentation: The process of reasoning systematically in support of an idea, action, or theory, often involving the use of evidence to validate claims.

Mathematical Discourse: The verbal and written communication that occurs during mathematics instruction, which can include discussions, questions, explanations, and reflections.

Collaborative Learning:

An educational approach where students work together to solve problems and understand concepts, fostering teamwork and communication skills.