The Sparrows 2017-18: Math Workshop: Shapes

It all started with a shoe falling off...or possibly purposely being taken off! Either way, it was a great introduction into our math workshop! Today the Sparrows took part in a math workshop with a focus on common geometric shapes.

Three centers were set up in the room, one at each table. At one center was color and shape bingo. A teacher pulled a shape from the bin, friends identified the shape, and then took a look down at their boards to see if they had a match. If so, friends placed a marker on that spot. Friends worked until their boards were completely filled.

The next center included colored popsicle sticks. First, friends created different shapes using the sticks. Then, once a shape was formed, used a q-tip to place a dot of glue to help stick the popsicle sticks together. The Sparrows noticed that they were not able to create a circle using the popsicle sticks, since circles have curves and popsicle sticks are only able to make straight and diagonal lines.

At the final station were geoboards. Friends placed rubber bands onto the boards to create the different geometric shapes. Like the popsicle sticks, friends noticed that they were not able to create circles. However, friends realized that if they flipped the board over, there was a circle on the back.

Friends participated at each center. After a certain period of time, the lights would flash, marking that it was time to rotate centers. Friends worked on their shape and color recognition and awareness, as well as fine motor skills and pinch grip. These exercises helped to exercise our muscles, physically and mentally! The Sparrows very much so enjoyed being a part of the workshop, taking part in the different activities, and conversing with friends.

Using the geoboards and rubber bands, some friends created houses with the different shapes.

Magnatiles are also a great tool to help give us exposure to shapes and colors. Using triangles and squares, a friend created a wonderfully balanced structure!