Connect the four operations with a series of number sentences. After studying the examples at the top of the page, third graders find ways to write related number sentences for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division...

How many visual models can be used to show multiplication? Three basic kinds of models can be used to represent and explain the equation 4 x (9 + 2).  The commentary section provides description and graphics to explain the set...

Expose youngsters to 3-D objects in a hands-on learning activity involving marshmallows and toothpicks. Engage your young mathematicians by introducing them to 3-D shapes by means of a story book. Explore 3-D shapes by manipulating...

Let's use math to solve an argument. Jon and Charlie are debating about who can run farther, but who is right? That's what your class will figure out as they apply their understanding of fractions to this real-life situation. A simple,...

Four polygons each have a fraction with unlike denominators printed on them. Creative math minds select several shapes to create a design with and then write and solve a math problem involving the addition of all of the fractions...

Visual models support young mathematicians as they deepen their fractional number sense in this elementary math lesson. Using fraction circle manipulatives, children explore basic unit fractions as they develop the fundamental...

Elementary schoolers find out which month has the most class birthdays (mode) and which birthday represents the middle point of all the birthdays (median). They gather and organize data to find one number that fairly represents the whole...

Start your engines! Small groups collect data from websites pertaining to the Indianapolis 500 in order to determine average speed per lap and miles in each lap. The lesson plan requires prior knowledge of the the formula d=rt.

Do I stand or do I sit? The class plays a dice game where they must decide to either continue to stand and play or sit down and keep their points. After the game, groups discuss individuals' strategies and see connections to the...

Students apply abstract concepts, such as stress, fulcrums, the law of gravity, and the strength of different geometric shapes. Groups of student contractors operate simulated architectural firms to create strong, economical bridges.

Students see how to identify regular polygons, how to slide, turn and flip polygons, and why certain polygons tessellate better than others. Groups create a one foot square design to be used to tile the classroom. Great lesson!

Working in small groups students develop three alternative boat designs. They discuss the rationale for the type of hull, propeller, location of ballast, and type of building material used in their design. They build their boat.

Investigate division through the use of array models. The lesson focuses on using area models to compare division as sharing with division as grouping. Students evaluate the usefulness and limitations of the two array models.

First graders place some specific types of objects (e.g., shoes, favorite food) on concrete graphs and pictographs. They listen and respond to others in a variety of contexts (e.g., pay attention to the speaker; take turns speaking in a...

First graders recognize and write numerals from 1 to 10. They estimate and count to identify sets with more, fewer, or the same number of objects, listen and respond to others in a variety of contexts, and take turns speaking in a...

Elementary schoolers explore place value to the millions place. They construct and evaluate the value of numbers. Working in small groups, pupils problem solve with pocket place value charts, and examine standard and expanded forms. This...

A great way to show the difference between odd and even numbers is by using blocks. The graphics in this PowerPoint do a great job at showing the two groups of numbers. Tip: After viewing this presentation, have students experiment with...

Here is a fine instructional activity on inequalities of fractions for your third graders. After a modeling session by the teacher, pupils are put into groups and are led through a discovery session using fraction bars and inequalities....

A complete lesson on dividing whole numbers by other whole numbers and getting a fraction result. Groups of learners use fractions bars, and strips of paper that are cut to specific lengths. The hands-on activities in the lesson are...

Is time on your side? Pupils come up with an experiment to test whether their classmates can guess how long it takes for 30 seconds to elapse. They divide the class data into two groups, create box-and-whisker plots, and analyze the...

Assess whether your kindergartners can identify numbers in random order using two sets of numeral cards 1-10 and 11-20. Starting with a small group and the 1-10 deck give your learners the task of putting the cards into order from...

How do you show that something is a rectangle? This activity starts with four coordinate points and asks young geometers to explain whether they create a rectangle. Knowledge from both geometry and algebra come into play here, as well...

Using a 100s chart or a number line with a pointer, work with your class to count up to 100 by ones and tens. As a part of daily instruction, prompt your kindergartners to chant count from 1 to 30. Move on to 1 to 50, and then from 1 to...

At the end of this activity, your number crunchers will have a better understanding as to how to describe graphs of velocity versus time and distance versus time. It is easy for learners to misinterpret graphs of velocity, so have them...