Mike Waski joins us to talk about moving between concrete and abstract exploration in Mathematics with Upper Elementary and Adolescent students. This is not a linear progression, but a dance back and forth between both types of exploration.

Mike explains that it's no particular skill that is the most important for students moving from Upper Elementary to the Adolescent Community, but that students are mathematical thinkers. This comes from students being given the time to explore mathematical concepts with hands-on materials. Upper El Guides must resist the temptation to move students too quickly into abstraction and give the gift of time for students to make foundational discoveries. Mike gives lots of specific examples about how to inspire students who resist using materials. Mike describes how the Montessori materials can still be used with Adolescents, although they are beyond their sensitive period for using manipulatives, to support their understanding.