Funded Feb 12, 2025When my students first saw the new colored pencils, markers, scissors, and colored paper, they were so excited! You could see the spark in their eyes as they eagerly gathered around the supplies. It was such a shift from the usual math tools, and it immediately made them feel more engaged and creative.
One specific project we worked on was around geometry and shapes. Students used the colored paper to cut out different 2D shapes like triangles, squares, and circles. Then, they used the colored pencils and markers to label the sides, angles, and other important characteristics. Some students got really creative and started combining the shapes into larger patterns, helping them better understand concepts like symmetry and tessellations.
What was amazing to see was how the hands-on activity helped students grasp abstract math concepts. They were using the materials not only to visually represent shapes but also to work through problems and calculate area and perimeter. They enjoyed the tactile nature of cutting and arranging shapes, and many of them felt more confident about the math they were learning because they could see it in front of them.
Looking ahead, the next steps in this project involve using the shapes they've created to solve more complex geometry problems. For example, they'll work on identifying the relationship between different shapes and finding areas and perimeters of combined shapes. We're also going to introduce 3D shapes, where students will be building structures out of paper and then calculating surface area and volume. This hands-on approach is helping them not only understand the theory but also apply it practically, which is making math feel more accessible and fun.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Eclevia