Fun Math Lesson Idea!

Fun Math Lesson Idea!

Make math lessons fun and interactive this coming May.  Here is an idea to help combine multiple math concepts and tie together those end of the year problem solving skills that foster independent critical thinking.

Classify, Sort, and Record:  A Button Graphing Activity

Age level:  Can be used at all grade levels, but remember buttons would be a choking hazard for the very young student.

Classroom set-up:  Can be done individually or in pairs very easily.  Small groups will also enjoy the experience.

Materials needed:  Large button collection, graph paper, pencils, and ruler.

Give students a collection of buttons of all different sizes, materials, and attributes.  Students can sort the collection by all types of characteristics- like color, number of holes, size, or material.  This is a fun activity, and students actually have a ton of questions about old buttons.  Next, students can record the data from their classification.  Finally, create a graph that interprets the data for presentation.  Students will love the change of pace and independence of the activity.  The activity hits on so many potential concepts that a teacher can apply this lesson to graph making, reading, and scientific data recording.  If you do not have buttons, think about the items you do have around the house or classroom- beads work too or a maybe a variety of cereals.  I love using buttons, and it is easy to find scrap buttons at yard sales.  If you are a teacher with a month left of school, this activity will capture the attention of summer-minded students.  

If you like this idea, please share it with your friends.  I really appreciate your help and support!  I want to be able to give free tips to families and teachers.  My blogs are all about my life as a wife, mother of four sons, and teacher.  My hope is to add some peace in the lives of women like myself who juggle two full time jobs!  I post lesson ideas, teacher tips, recipes, house decorating tips, and tips to make family life a joy!  Thank you for reading my ideas and following.

Many Family Blessings,

Abi