While MindPlay Math is an online learning platform, the most important aspect of learning is the relationship between the teacher and the student. With MindPlay Math, students learn at their own pace using adaptive technology that adjusts based on student individual strengths and weaknesses. Students only work on those lessons that they need. At the same time, teachers receive real-time data to monitor student progress and ensure that they have the tools to provide support for areas where students struggle.
MindPlay Math Method
MindPlay Math instruction is based on the following:
- Orton Gillingham – MindPlay Math is consistent with Orton-Gillingham’s elements of evidence-based instruction. While the general research and concept of Orton Gilliangham focuses on reading, the style of instruction also translates to math and has proven particularly helpful for students who struggle to grasp math concepts.
- Explicit Instruction – the program utilizes the most effective best practices for math instruction. Students using MindPlay Math receive precise modeling, think-aloud explanations, multiple examples and immediate corrective feedback to ensure understanding.
- Visual Representation – key math skills are taught using number lines, tape diagrams, pictures graphs and graphic organizers.
- Schema-based Instruction – students learn to solve problems by identifying problem types. MindPlay Math teaches students to identify patterns in problems using diagrams to support correct strategies to solve the problem accurately.
How MindPlay Math Works
MindPlay Math is a uniquely designed program that meets the individual needs of students. The goal is to create a strong math foundation through evidence-based, standards-aligned instruction designed by educators.
- Adaptive Technology – student responses are recorded and the program adapts to provide lessons that the student needs.
- Engaging Learning – students work at their own pace and only work on lessons that target their specific needs. Students have the opportunity to personalize their profiles with themes and avatars.
- Real-Time Reporting – monitor individual student progress immediately. Robust reports allow you to pinpoint student strengths and weaknesses to reward or intervene as needed.
- Achievements and Awards – students receive certificates and are constantly given positive feedback to encourage and motivate them as they work in the program
MindPlay Math provides instruction in the following major math strands for Kindergarten, first and second grade
- Counting and Cardinality
- Operations and Algebraic Thinking
- Number and Operations in base ten
- Measurement and Data
- Geometry
MindPlay Math conducts a screener before students in third through fifth grade begin the program to determine areas of strength and weakness. Areas screened include
- Operations and Algebraic Thinking
- Number and Operations in base ten
- Measurement and Data
- Geometry
The program adapts based on student responses and students are given lessons to fill in any knowledge gaps to ensure that students have a firm math foundation.
Let’s take a look at how the program works for students
Teia Hoover Baker is an educator, published author, and entrepreneur. She is an innovative, devoted educator whose career has been dedicated to coordinating programs that support struggling learners. Her passion is meeting students where they are and guiding them to excel. Her main focus is always what is best for children. Teia holds a Bachelor’s in Journalism and a Master’s of Education. In her spare time, she enjoys being Lovie to her growing grandchildren.
