Tangrams, a set of 7 figures that --arranged in a certain way -- form a large square, provide a fun and engaging opportunity for students to explore various measurement and numeracy concepts, all while developing their spatial sense.
This morning we spent considerable time "playing" with these ancient Chinese puzzles. Students worked through a number of guided activities, doing lots manipulating of shapes. Oral language was used in abundance, and allowed us to develop a bank of high-frequency academic vocabulary.
Some students demonstrated their solutions to various "problems" on the document camera, others drew their solutions on scrap paper and shared with me, or with a partner.
This morning we spent considerable time "playing" with these ancient Chinese puzzles. Students worked through a number of guided activities, doing lots manipulating of shapes. Oral language was used in abundance, and allowed us to develop a bank of high-frequency academic vocabulary.
Some students demonstrated their solutions to various "problems" on the document camera, others drew their solutions on scrap paper and shared with me, or with a partner.
The activity allowed for considerable focussed observation on my part, and assessment was quick and easy.
For more information on Tangrams, or to play with them online, check out the links below:
http://www.mathplayground.com/tangrams.html
http://pbskids.org/sagwa/games/tangrams/
http://games.ztor.com/tang/
Have fun exploring Tangrams!
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