Comparisons is the first step in developing an understanding of measurement among young children. For example, splitting a cookie between friends shows how children are capable of grasping this concept. It is important for children, in their first few years, to have the opportunities to use their comparison skills as well as learn to use standard and nonstandard tools to support their different measurement activities. A plethora of activities on different math concepts, like measurement are used in the book, Creative Investigation in Early Math written by Angela Eckhoff, P.h.D.
Me-Size Towers
Topic:
Objective:
- Children will build block towers that reach their height.
Materials:
- Building blocks in a variety of sizes
- Mirror
- Digital camera ( optional )
Overview:
Children will work to build towers as tall as they are. This lesson works best if children work in pairs or small groups so they have adequate access to needed materials and help from peers.
Activity Steps:
- Start with a whole-group discussion about estimating height. Begin by asking children if they have ever made a tower as tall as themselves. Ask how many blocks they think it will take to make a teacher-size tower. Use children as examples of tower height: “How about a Kyra-size tower or one as tall as Deon?”
- Divide the children into pairs or small groups, and ask them to find enough space to begin working on their towers.
- Encourage the children to think about their tower’s base size, so it will support other blocks as children add to the tower.
- Periodically ask the children to count the number of blocks they have used so far and to estimate how many more they will need. Have the builders stand next to their tower while you hold up a mirror to show them how close they are to creating a tower as tall as they are.
- After each tower is complete you can take a photograph of the children standing next to it, if desired.
Instructions
Find pictures of animals in coloring books, magazines, and catalogues. Place
them on heavy cardboard or poster board and laminate them for durability.
What to Do
1. Place the pictures in the math area.
2. Read a book on the growth of an animal and then engage the children in a
discussion about the growing process.
3. Encourage the children to use the pictures to sequence the animals' growth.
Poem
You're Growing by Eileen Lucas
When I was just a wee little baby So I went to visit my Nan and Pop
My parents said to me, To see what they would say.
"My, how you're growing!" "Come here my child,
Then when it was time to start school Have they been feeding you well?"
My teacher said to me, And before I had the chance to answer,
"My, how you're growing!" They gave me a bowl of cookies.
I went out with my friends one day And then they said,
And guess what they said to me? "Now eat all your cookies
"My, how you're growing!" So Mom and Dad can say,
I was tired of people telling me "My, how you're growing!'"
"My, how you're growing!"
Assessment
Consider the following:
* Can the children see the growth of animals by sequencing the pictures from
babies to fully grown?
* Can the children identify by name the animals in the images?
