Math Language Routine 1: My Less Messy Idea

Speaker: It’s helpful to establish routines that give students permission to jot down initial ideas and opportunities to revise their thinking. My Less Messy Idea supports both.

First, when starting a problem, ask students to jot down their initial ideas. This can be their messy idea space, and it can include anything–words, symbols, sketches, questions, and so on.

Then, before they actually solve the problem, have them partner up and share their initial ideas with each other. Remind them that these are messy ideas, so the sharing should be supportive, not judgmental. They can discuss clarifications, helpful representations, or promising starts.

Finally, ask students to write down their Less Messy Idea. You can decide whether they do this revision individually or with a partner. The Less Messy Idea still doesn’t have to be a complete solution, but it should show progress in their thinking and communication. Now go ahead and give my Less Messy Idea a try.