Reflections after 4th session 4/4/2013

In designing Numeracy experiences, go for the concept first, then Manipulatives later.
According to Jean Piaget, Intelligence is defined as more refined schema and schema creation.

Problem
There are 3 ½ of water in a jar. A thirsty crow drink ¾ of it. How much is left ?
3 ½ - ¾
Method 1
3 ½ - ¾ =
7/2 – ¾ =

Method 2
3 ½ - ½ = 3
1 ¼ = ¾
2 + ¾ = 2 ¾

Method 3
3 ½ - ¾
1 ½ - ¾ = ¾
2 + ¾ = 2 ¾

In teaching Geometry to young children, do not teach kite shape.
For 3D shapes, introduce the shapes as rectangular, circular. Do not introduce words sphere, cylinder as developmentally they may not be able to grasp the concept. Taking a concrete item, refer to the 3D shapes as rectangular, circular.

Tangrams

A good manipulative to introduce is a 2D 7 piece mosaic puzzle that is built on isometric grid.

Journal
1. Why shape 1 and 2 are the same size?
2. How many shape 2 are in 5?
3. How many 2 and 1 make 3?
4. Compare 7, 2 and 1.

As an educator, we need to be aware of the games children in other cultures are playing. We need to be constantly asking ourselves what is the concept behind and how does this contribute to their thinking. A tangram is a must in every classroom to build visualization in the minds of children. We learn Maths from the culture around us.