Our new math curriculum is full of new math games and hands-on activities that involve the student directly in the learning process. A recent project we did was creating crabs and then making a growing pattern chart for discussion. The discussion revolved around using base 10 (since crabs have 10 legs) and looking at the ways you can add a series of numbers (7 rows of crabs...7+6+5+4+3+2+1=.......) The students came up with some very keen observations and calculations that I wrote down and recorded. With the growing crab chart, they were able to start looking at mathematical patterns and foundational concepts in a new, more visual way. Good work, busy bees!!!
Making the crabs:
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| Ella working on her crab's eyes. |
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| Francis attaching his crab legs. |
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| The final product! |
Direct quotes from the mathematicians:
And a few snapshots of our math stations:
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| Kelsey is challenging herself to add up four numbers, instead of two, in "Bugs in the Garden" addition. Good job Kelsey! |
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| Eli using his math strategies for "Bugs in the House" subtraction. Good work, Eli! |
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| Ian is working hard and using odd/even tiles at the odd/even station! |
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| New busy bee William completing the Bugs addition worksheet, good job! |
