I am just writing this one up quickly, I found this activity on NZMaths and thought it would be interesting to see how the class solved it. I gave them no direction and allowed them to work with whoever they wanted, rather than their usual mixed problem solving groups. The activity was called "Teacups" and had the whole class focused and persisting for the entire session!
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| This group chose counters and beans to represent the cups and saucers |
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| At one stage this group were ready to give up! They thought they had it, but there were cups and saucers in the wrong places! (They did keep trying, and after many attempts they got there) |
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| These boys used a variety of materials during the task, recording their ideas with coloured pens. |
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| Felt tips - always handy for problem solving! |
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| Beans were great, except when you get mixed up between which were cups and which were saucers. |
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| Buttons didn't work so well, especially with the limited colours, but these girls got there in the end |
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| Still rearranging the grid! |
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| So happy to see these two working so well, Mack trying out different strategies, and both contributing and persevering... |
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| ... then trying out their ideas with materials! |
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| Success! |
The most wonderful thing about these types of activities is that everyone is so involved. The class found it an achievable challenge, regardless of "maths ability" so it kind of like levels everyone and everything out.
I need to work on ensuring time for reflection at the end of each session. After being given those really lovely Growth Mindset visuals (thanks, Leslee) I realised this is something I don't do enough of. Time just goes so fast when you're having fun... the bell rings and we haven't finished. I will start setting my alarm I think!
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