What are Sentence Stems?
A sentence stem is a partial phrase that gives students a structured starting point for generating their own sentences. They don't remove the thinking, just reduce the language barrier so that students can actually explain and demonstrate their understaning.
🚫 Without Sentence Stems
Students sit silently, unsure of what to do next. English language learners know the math, but can't find the words to explain it. Discussion stays surface level, or doesn't happen at all, leaving the teacher to explain concepts.
✅ With Sentence Stems
Every student has a way in. Language stops being a barrier, and even ELLs are able to join in the classroom discussion. Math talk becomes a classroom norm, not just a goal on a lesson plan or a buzzword your admin is looking for.