3 Reasons Why you Need a Number Line in your Middle School Classroom
Almost every elementary classroom has a number line. However, that seems to change the older students get. Many assume middle school students no longer need a number line in their classroom. I would argue that a number line should be an essential part of every middle school math classroom and here is why!
1. Number Lines Bring Abstract Concepts to Life
The higher the level of math the more abstract math concepts can become. Number lines are one way to bring these concepts to life. Integers, fractions, decimals, and inequalities are just a few concepts that would benefit from having a number line when teaching. Not only does a number line display help you as the teacher, but using mini number lines (like these) for students can give them hands-on practice with these abstract topics.
2. Number Lines Can Help All Students
Ever since middle school, I recognized math did not come easily for everyone. In college, it became my passion to help math come to life for those that struggled, especially middle school students. I loved helping students as a middle school math teacher. However, it wasn’t until I had my own children that I discovered even more about how children see and learn differently.
I suspect my daughter has dyslexia and see how easily things get mixed up in her brain. She is 8 now but I can imagine as she gets older and learns more complex math concepts she will need tools like a number line. Having a number line in your classroom is a tool that any student can reference at any time! It is a simple and effective way to reach all learners.
3. Number Lines Can Make Teaching Easier!
When you hang up a number line display the possibilities of using it in your teaching are endless! Here are three specific ways you can use a number line to make your teaching easier:
Laminate and use dry-erase markers to give examples of ordering numbers, addition or subtraction of integers or graphing inequalities (just to name a few topics).
Use with sticky notes. Many students have a hard time visualizing where decimals, fractions, or percentages fall on a number line. Having a display to reference is a game changer. Give students sticky notes and have them order rational numbers on the number line. Check out this post for more ides on using sticky notes in math class.
Give students mini number lines. These can be a tool students use on their desks or as math bookmarks. These are also most helpful when laminated and used with dry-erase markers to show integer operations, inequalities, and more.
Where to Get a Number Line
You can make your own number line display or grab my best-selling (over 2,300 sold) one from my TpT store here. My number line bundle includes a large horizontal display from -100 to +100, a vertical display, blank number lines as well as mini number lines for your students to use.
Do you use a number line in your classroom? What other ways do you find having a number line helpful?
