Computational Fluency

Building Fluency

Games, stories and rich math tasks/routines are the best way to build fluency. Fluency, unlike memorization is developed from a deep understanding of how numbers work. Unlike memorized facts, computational fluency allows students to work efficiently in any context with flexibility and confidence. The resources on this page support the development of computational fluency through activating deep thinking about how numbers work, how they go together and how they come apart.

Questions to ask when choosing resources for developing fluency:

Does this resource/tool/activity develop understanding of how numbers work, rather than focusing on speed and accuracy?

Does this resource/tool/activity activate thinking? (memorization activates recall, not thinking)

Does this resource/tool/activity allow for flexibility of strategies and thinking to be practiced and acknowledged?

Does this resource/tool/activity allow for each child to operate within their development zone (unproductive struggle = frustration; unnecessary repetition = boredom)

Does this resource/tool/activity allow for moments of DISCOVERY and JOY as the learner makes deeper connections to how numbers work in the world?

Teachers: Always remember to preview any resources for compatibility with the technology available AND compliance with your districts curriculum and privacy requirements.

Steve Wyborney’s Multiplication Course (and activities)

Christina Tondevold:

Youcubed:

Parent Resources
Fluency Without Fear
Mindset and Weeks of Inspirational Math Videos
PolyUp (puzzle game)

Dan Finkel:

Games
Tiny Polka Dot and Prime Climb (Math Board Games)
Parent Support
Blog (many articles on developing computation)
Curriculum (Grade levels aligned to American Common Core, be selective for BC Curriculum)