MMM September 2011 Pattern Blocks (colour printer, double-sided)
Last year, a group of Surrey teachers suggested having a “Math Manipulative of the Month” at their school. Instantly, I thought this was a great idea. After this conversation, I created the brochure above. My hope is that this series of brochures can be used to generate conversations between teachers (and students, of course!).
Before trying the problems, I would ask teachers to get to know each MMM and list all they know about them. For example,
- “Two reds cover 1 yellow”, “Three triangles make 1 trapezoid”, etc.
- “All sides are the same length, except the base of the red trapezoid. It’s twice as long.”
- “The orange square and tan rhombus do not cover the other tiles.”
The symmetry problem ended up on the cutting room floor. Here it is: Pattern Blocks Symmetry.
Also, please see how the question “How many ways can you make 360 degrees?” becomes a problem-based lesson in Grade 6. Here’s the three-part lesson plan: Angles (format from Van de Walle).
I attempted to have a balance of primary and intermediate problems. How can each problem be adapted for the grade level that you teach?
Next month… Base Ten Blocks.
Chris Hunter 