Pre-K-2, 3-5
Students often view linear measurement as a procedure in which a number is simply read off a ruler. The goal of this lesson is to have students gain experience in linear measurement by using a variety of measuring instruments to measure the heights of classmates, to discover the error inherent in measurement, and to search for patterns in data that are represented on a table. In this lesson, students compare results of measuring the same height using different methods, and discuss measurement error. They measure the heights of classmates and the heights of older students in their school, and construct a table of height and age data. The lesson is also designed to serve as a springboard for a second lesson in which students relate measurement to algebra and data analysis concepts.
Pre-K-2, 3-5
A key goal for instruction on algebra at the elementary level is to analyze change, and to understand how change in one variable can relate to change in a second variable. The goal of this lesson is for students to explore how changes in students’ ages relate to changes in their heights.
3-5
When students play the Factor Trail game, they have to identify the
factors of a number to earn points. Built into this game is cooperative
learning — students check one another's work before points are awarded.
The score sheet used for this game provides a built-in assessment tool
that teachers can use to check their students' understanding.
3-5, 6-8
The
Stomachion is an ancient tangram-type puzzle. Believed by
some to have been created by Archimedes, it consists of 14 pieces cut
from a square. The pieces can be rearranged to form other interesting
shapes. In this lesson, students learn about the history of the
Stomachion, use the pieces to create other figures, learn about symmetry and transformations, and investigate the areas of the pieces.
3-5
In this lesson, students generate products using a number line model. Students are encouraged to predict the products and to answer puzzles involving multiplication.
3-5
Students continue their investigation of modeling multiplication on the number line using the Distance-Speed-Time Simulation from the NCTM E-Examples.
3-5
Again using the E-Example simulation, students will model multiplication facts on the number line and compare various representations.
3-5
In this lesson, students model races in which runners start from various positions. They enter numbers in a table of values, model races on a coordinate grid, and compare the results. Students begin to develop an understanding of linear relationships.
3-5
Students generate and compare paths which model given problem situations on graphing grids.
Pre-K-2
Students are introduced to the concepts of greater than, less than and equal to
by observing quantities and making comparisons. Using various
instructional materials such as modeling clay, buttons, beans, and
cotton balls, students create amounts to compare using the open-mouthed
fish. Depending which fish is chosen, the fish cut-out (with its mouth
open) represents either greater than or less than. For equivalent amounts, a clam cut-out represents equal to.
This introductory lesson can be assessed through visual observation
and verbal questioning. A group size of 3 – 6 students per group is
optimal.
