By far, this is the game my students L-O-V-E the best. That’s because it’s all about them. And that’s okay because I get to use it to help kids make connections in math. This is a game we used to do in Mathematics A Way of Thinking (Math Their Way) workshops. It’s all about attributes. Attributes are characteristics of something. I actually use the word ‘attributes’ with students because I want them to become familiar with what it means. That…
Print and share this pdf which covers the areas of: Supporting positive attitudes towards mathematics Being an active participant in your child’s learning Creating an appropriate learning environment Promoting critical thinking and problem-solving Showing an interest in what your child is doing and learning in school
Patterns. It was always a theme throughout the school year in my mathematics classes. So to kick-off patterns, during the first week of school, the students create a color pattern using their name. Then, we discuss the patterns made by names of different lengths. It may seem like a simple activity, but some great conversations can be generated when students focus on the reasons why certain patterns appear. For example, in the photo above, there are 15 squares in each…
Here’s something super easy to do with kindergartners and first graders that covers a lot of the Common Core geometry standards. You will need one geoboard per student and some geobands. Working in small groups, ask students to design different shapes on their geoboards. Discuss the attributes of the shapes and compare different shapes such as rectangles and triangles. Next, have students create different shapes within specific parameters. For example, design a triangle that touches exactly 4 pegs. See photo…
I love doing this activity with kindergartners and first graders! Not only is it a great way for them to practice their addition facts but these little guys LOVE writing on their individual white board, so it’s a win/win! And it’s so simple. Here’s what you do: Without turning it on, put ONE domino on the overhead projector or doc camera. Tell students that you are going to flash a domino for a few seconds and their job is to…