Browsed by
Category: Problem-Solving

Pom Pom Patterns

Pom Pom Patterns

Comments 0 Comment

Mathematics has been described as the science of pattern.  That’s because pattern is the foundation of all work done in math and is the thread that binds all parts of mathematics together. Through recognizing, describing, extending, and generalizing patterns in quantities, numbers, shapes, and space, we learn that there is a sense of order and predictability to math. We come to realize that the rules and procedures that we are so used to using actually evolved as efficient ways to…

Read More Read More

Building Math Skills with Halloween Candy

Building Math Skills with Halloween Candy

Comments 0 Comment

Halloween candy seems like an unusual place to find math. But, it turns out, there are some great skill-building activities that can be done with these yummy treats….all in the context of something kids love – candy! Here are four fun and educational post-trick-or-treating activities: ~ CANDY SORT ~ Have your child place all their candy in a pile. Ask her to sort the candy into groups. As she is sorting, ask her why she chose the groups she did….

Read More Read More

Three “Tools” that Promote Mathematical Thinking

Three “Tools” that Promote Mathematical Thinking

Comments 0 Comment

One of the best ways to engage young children in math is to make it hands-on. Here are three hands-on tools that can give kindergartners opportunities to do some great mathematical thinking in the context of…them. Bathroom Scale: The bathroom scale is a fun math “tool” to have in the house because it gives kids immediate feedback and, the best part is, it’s all about them! Unlike a lot of adults who may not like standing on a bathroom scale,…

Read More Read More

Name Patterns: A Fun First Week of School Activity

Name Patterns: A Fun First Week of School Activity

Comments 0 Comment

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…

Read More Read More

Subitizing with Dominoes

Subitizing with Dominoes

Comments 0 Comment

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…

Read More Read More