A classic manipulative, used since the 1960s, continues to offer opportunities for intriguing problem solving involving proportions.
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Revisit Pattern Blocks to Develop Rational Number Sense
Joe Champion and Ann Wheeler
Radical Thoughts on Simplifying Square Roots
Kyle T. Schultz and Stephen F. Bismarck
A geometric approach using exact square manipulatives can promote an understanding of the algorithm to dismantle radical expressions.
Building Bridges to Spatial Reasoning
Jessica F. Shumway
Three days of using building blocks significantly enriched second graders' thinking about multiple dimensions.
UDL for Geometric Length Measurement
Sarah J. Selmer and Kimberly Floyd
A proactive preschool teacher differentiates instruction by using the Universal Design for Learning framework to decrease barriers that limit students' access to classroom learning.
Pattern-block frenzy
Katie L. Anderson
Teachers share success stories and ideas that stimulate thinking about the effective use of technology in K–grade 6 classrooms. This article describes a set of lessons where sixth graders use virtual pattern blocks to develop proportional reasoning. Students' work with the virtual manipulatives reveals a variety of creative solutions and promotes active engagement. The author suggests that technology is most effective when coupled with worthwhile mathematical tasks and rich classroom discussions.
Mathematical Lens: Mathematics and the Art of Sol LeWitt
Timothy McKeny and Joanne Caniglia
Students analyze a photograph to solve mathematical questions related to the images captured in the photograph. This month, the art of sculptor and painter Sol LeWitt is analyzed. Counting, combinatorics, and spatial visualization are among the mathematical themes evinced.
A smorgasbord of assessment options
Kathy A. Bacon
Presented with a variety of palatable, inquiry-based, creative learning choices in geometry, this teacher and her fifth graders found tremendous satisfaction in meeting target goals for reasoning skills and taking important “next steps” in learning.
Math by the Month: Sweet play
Shuk-kwan S. Leung and Jane-Jane Lo
As part of her holiday preparations, Cathy decorates sugar cubes. Cathy's aunt, Ms. Betty, runs a bakery and likes to think of ways to make her store more attractive, especially for holidays. She enjoys cutting, arranging, and designing seasonal displays with her famous brownies almost as much as she enjoys baking them. And everyone loves the different sizes of Ms. Kate's chocolate sticks.
