2006 Peer-to-Peer memo

1. Memorandum
To: Ms. Knors, Principal
From: A. Jorge García, Mathematics Teacher
Re: Peer­to­Peer Focus 2005–2006
Date: 6/13/2006
My P2P Focus for the 2005–2006 school was “How can I involve as many students as
possible during home work review.” The day after new material is presented to my Math
students, I have them explain their home work at the board. I randomly select one student
at a time to explain part of a problem. Then I randomly select another to continue the
problem. I continue this process until each problem is solved and we then start the next
problem. The emphasis in Math class is to develop problem solving skills.
In this vein I have Clear and High Expectations that each and every student can
achieve a high­quality of work. As the students develop their solutions at the board, I make
sure to interject appropriate learning standards for that problem. We also accentuate
Academic Rigor in a Thinking Curriculum by focusing on the core ideas of each problem as
the solution is developed by the students. I also expect students not at the board to ask
questions about the solution if they do not understand or add to the solution if they see a
better solution. This process also lends itself to Fair and Credible Evaluation. When I
select a student to go to the board I evaluate their work on the problem at hand.
My meetings with my Peer Coach were very helpful. Carol Bella’s focus was
alternative assessment. I will be incorporating more group tests and take home tests in the
future as a result. Carol also helped me fine tune my homework review. I make sure to
make examples of the best solutions. I challenge the students at the board to explain key
ideas that come up in the solution. I check preparedness for class. I also provide feedback
to each student so they know what is expected of them.
I am very happy with my Peer Coaching experience this year. I think I put into
place many new and useful techniques for class and I learned a lot from my Peer Coach.
Sincerely,
A. Jorge García
Applied Math & CS
Baldwin SHS & Nassau CC
http://calcpage.tripod.com
calcpage@lycos.com
p2pMemo2.doc 1