Using the strategy app to make mental methods visible

Mental strategies can become slogans if students only hear the strategy name. A student may know the words split strategy or bridging, but still need to see what changes in each step.

The Daily Maths Review strategy app gives teachers worked examples for split strategy, count on, number line, levelling, compensation and bridging. Students can then switch to try-it mode and enter each step themselves.

Start with a worked example

Use learn mode first and keep the focus on the move, not the final answer. Ask students what changed, what stayed the same and why that made the calculation friendlier.

• Use split strategy when students need to organise tens and ones.
• Use count on or number line when students need to see jumps.
• Use levelling when students are adjusting subtraction without changing the difference.
• Use compensation or bridging when students are making friendlier numbers.

Make students name the step

Before moving to the next example, ask students to say the step in plain language. This stops the app from becoming answer practice and keeps it focused on strategy choice.

Use try-it mode as evidence

If students can enter the final answer but miss an earlier step, return to the worked example. If they can explain each step, move to a related strategy or use the operation app for fluency practice.