I Have, You Need: The Utility Player of Instructional Routines

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by: Mike Jordahl, Region 7 Director

One of the biggest shifts in the 2022 MN math standards is the focus on mathematical rigor (the “three-legged stool”), which balances:

  • Conceptual understanding

  • Procedural knowledge

  • Real-world application

The “I Have, You Need” routine is a great way to connect all three legs of this stool.

How it Works

  • The Setup: The teacher (or facilitator) gives a “target” number.

  • The Action: Students mentally find efficient, creative ways to solve for the target and explain their thinking.

  • The Format: It works well as a call-and-response activity and can be done one-on-one, in small groups, or with the whole class.

Why It’s Effective

  • For All Ages: While designed for elementary fluency, it can be adapted for students of any age.

  • Builds Connections: Mental solving encourages students to naturally combine procedural skills with their own sense-making(conceptual) and real-world knowledge.

  • Encourages Growth: As the lead learner, you might need to help make connections early on, but students will soon connect all parts of mathematical rigor on their own.

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