Don’t Quote Me on That: Math Attitude Card Sort
Life Science, Physical Science, Earth and Space Science
Recommended for grades 9-12.
Teacher Prep time: 10-15 min
Student Activity: 15-30 min
Essential Question
What mathematical skills and fears do students have when applying math to science content?
Activity Objectives
- Determine math skills and weaknesses.
- Determine attitudes toward applied math.
Next Generation Science Standards* (NGSS)
PE HS-ESS1-4 Use mathematical or computational representations to predict the motion of orbiting objects in the solar system.
Science and Engineering Practices
Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
- Students will complete a skills and attitude self- assessment to inform teacher practice.
Disciplinary Core Ideas
DCI: Idea
- Applies to data analysis in all core ideas.
Crosscutting Concepts
Scale, Proportion, and Quantity
- Students will identify areas of strength and weakness in applied mathematics.
Procedures
This activity has 42 cards—38 have quotes conveying attitudes about math and science, and 4 require a written response. Have students sort the cards into 2 piles: agree (this is me) and disagree (this is not me). Consider adding a neutral pile (this doesn’t apply to me at all).
After students have sorted the cards, have them compile and summarize the quotes, then describe their attitudes, strengths, and weaknesses. Use the information to tailor your instruction involving math concepts.
- Sort cards into piles:
Agree (this is me)
Disagree (this is not me)
- You may also use a third category—neutral (this doesn’t apply to me at all).
- Compile and summarize the quotes.
- Write categories on the board.
- Describe math attitudes, strengths, weaknesses, and preconceptions.
- Discussion and journaling are ways students can reflect on the card sort results.
- Ask students what help they need from you. Ask what type of math instruction works for them.
- As a result, try grouping students with varying attitudes/ skills.
- Copy and laminate the cards for use with multiple classes.
Analysis and Discussion
Student answers will vary.
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My attitude toward using math in science is:
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My math strengths are:
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My math weaknesses are:
*Next Generation Science Standards® is a registered trademark of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards were involved in the production of, and do not endorse, these products.
