Author: srl10003

Gr 3_OA_SubtractionMultiDigitAlgorithm_Problem_Critique_1

I used this task with my 3rd grade students. The purpose of this task was to notice how to use regrouping when subtracted. I wanted students to recognize and understand when it is appropriate to regroup when subtracting. The students were given 2 different answers for the same subtraction problem. The student had to decide which answer was correct. The student had a place to include their claim and argument, as well as have time to discuss with a partner and record their partner’s thoughts.

Microsoft Word version: 3_OA_SubtractionMultiDigitAlgorithm_Problem_Critique

PDF version: 3_OA_SubtractionMultiDigitAlgorithm_Problem_Critique

Gr 3_OA_SubtractionMultiDigitAlgorithm_Problem_Critique_2

This task is a problem created for third graders on the use of the subtraction algorithm with multi-digit numbers. An example of a student’s work is given on solving a multi-digit subtraction problem, where they forget to borrow from the tens place. The questions in this task are scaffolded with argumentative language to require a critique to the question, a claim, evidence, and warrants.

Microsoft Word version: 3_OA_SubtractionMultiDigitAlgorithm_Problem_Critique_1

PDF version: 3_OA_SubtractionMultiDigitAlgorithm_Problem_Critique_1

Student Math Argumentation Rubric

This checklist was created to support grade 4 and 5 students with their written mathematical arguments. It was introduced in small groups to see how students responded to the tool: did it help them understand the different components of a mathematical argument and did it help them evaluate their own work. This checklist served as a scaffold to rubrics that assess each component of an argument.

Double Trouble Talk Frame

Double Trouble is a talk frame task for sixth graders. Students are given two conjectures on multiplication, that when you multiply by three, you double the number and add another number, and that when you multiply by four, you add two doubles of the number together. Students are asked to provide a critique using argumentation language on if the reasoning works and a claim.

Microsoft Word version: 6_double-trouble_FINAL

PDF version: 6_double-trouble_FINAL

Peer Feedback Argument Frame – Stuffed with Pizza

This task is an argument frame for sixth graders on fraction additon. Students are given a problem where two people eat different fraction portions of pizza and must determine who ate more pizza. Through the graphic organizer, students have a place to provide the details of their critique of the solutions, such as their claim, evidence, and warrants.

Microsoft Word version: 6_Copy-of-PeerFeedbackArgumentFrame-_-Stuffed-with-Pizza

PDF version: 6_Copy-of-PeerFeedbackArgumentFrame-_-Stuffed-with-Pizza

Mathematical Argument Scaffold

The Mathematical Argument Scaffold provides a template and space for each piece of a powerful argument. The scaffold works well with the Argumentation Poster, as it uses the same graphics and helpful words. There is a space for the claim, evidence, and warrant. This scaffold is designed for fifth grade students, but would work well with any students working on argumentation.

Microsoft Word version: 6_Copy-of-Mathematical-Argument-Scaffold

PDF version: 6_Copy-of-Mathematical-Argument-Scaffold


This is a worksheet designed for algebra students developing skills in the rules of exponents. The task works to develop a comprehensive understanding of the rules by asking students to critique samples of student work that address common errors. Students are also asked to think critically about how order of operations might affect the result when simplifying exponential expressions. This worksheet would be best used when students have a strong knowledge of exponents, so that they are able to recognize errors, rather than believe them to be true.

Microsoft Word version: 912Algebra_SSE_Exponents_Worksheet_Critique

PDF version: 912Algebra_SSE_Exponents_Worksheet_Critique


This warm up is designed for geometry students learning about angle bisectors. A picture of a segment bisecting an angle is given, along with five choices for setting up the equation to solve for the measure of each angle. A word bank and a sentence starter are provided to aid in the construction of an argument determining how to solve for the variable. Students are asked to create a claim and use prior knowledge as evidence to support the argument.

Microsoft Word version: 912Geometry_AngleBisector_Warmup_Construct_AngleBisectorWarmup

PDF version: 912Geometry_AngleBisector_Warmup_Construct_AngleBisectorWarmup