Geometry was a daunting subject for me in high school. So when I started teaching, I was determined to think of a way to teach geometry that was fun and interactive.
25 years ago, I sewed wide strips of elastic to form giant bands. Students use these bands and their whole bodies to form geometric shapes and angles. (A friend later mentioned that Chinese jump-ropes would work just as well!!) Well, that would have saved me hours of time! LOL Anyway. . . I love the higher level thinking these elastic bands lend themselves to: geometric proofs!
A group of three to four students has one elastic band and as I call out various shapes or angles, they use their body parts to form the geometric term. My one rule is that each student in the group has to be touching the band. This becomes tricky when there are more sides than arms or legs! They have to get creative!
The language and conversation between kids as they explain, argue, and form each shape or angle is fantastic to eavesdrop in on! I sure wish my teachers had done something like this when I took high school geometry!
Another great way to promote higher level thinking and interaction with geometric terms and attributes is Geometry Riddles. You can read about them HERE.
Another great way to promote higher level thinking and interaction with geometric terms and attributes is Geometry Riddles. You can read about them HERE.
Whole body learning is so much fun in math and it helps the kiddos remember the concepts too!
ReplyDeleteI agree! Anytime we involve our bodies, we remember what we were doing and learning!
DeleteWhat a great way for your kids to learn and understand geometry. You have such creative ideas to make learning fun.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Since I was "that math student" who did NOT understand, I always try to make learning math fun!
DeleteGreat idea. Just ordered me some Chinese jump ropes!!
ReplyDeleteYay! So much easier than sewing!! Let me know how they work out!
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