Better Assessments is Live!

Woohoo! After an inexcusably long delay, the Better Assessments blog is now up and running. Head on over to have a look at Stephanie Reilly’s Algebra 2 quiz on exponents and adding polynomials. Add your voice to the conversation by asking questions and providing feedback in the comments, and consider submitting your own assessments while you’re at it! Details (including …

Pathways Through the Common Core

I recently joined a conversation on Twitter about pathways through the Common Core State Standards and potentially-shifting opportunities for advanced students. It seems I’m not alone in wondering how a transition to the CCSSM will play out in our actual classrooms and departments. I teach in a very small math department (two members for the entire 7-12 program), so I …

Difference of Squares Game

A Game! Finals week often has awkward down time for students. With that in mind, I made a game for my middle school students to play next week. I’d love some feedback on the directions, the scoring system, and the game itself. And if you play with your students, let me know how it goes! A Few Words About Points …