Olympic Teaching Ideas

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Instead of the boring (and let's face it, predictable) “What I did this summer” assignment that teachers inevitably ask their students to write, why not asking students to write about the 2012 Olympics instead? 

Writing starters may include:

·      Who is your favorite Olympian and why?

·      What is your favorite Olympic sport?

Writing starters for older students may include:

·      Background history on the location of the 2012 Olympic games (What makes London so significant).

·      Research the origins of the Olympic games.

                                                                                                       

But don’t think that the Olympics only lend themselves to writing scenarios. Oh no, just think of how the math teacher can discuss ratios and odds when analyzing wins and losses. And keeping track of the number of overall wins is the perfect way to introduce (and reinforce) charts and graphs.

Websites to Help with Math

Does your child struggle with math concepts? Does your child need help understanding something? Are you intimidated with math, or just want another way to help your tech-savvy child learn?  Check out THIS ARTICLE with a list (and description) of some of the coolest and educational math sites out there on the web.

Of course while writing this article I couldn't help but bring in one of the FUN (okay, and corny) PBS shows from when I was a kid- that's right "Square One".  Check out the video above for the song about tessellations which help kids understand what a tessellation is and isn't.

Multiplying & Dividing for Measurements

Do your kids struggle multiplying and dividing measurements such as inches and feet? Do you sometimes know how to convert the numbers properly too? Why not check out THIS ARTICLE for tips on how to get your numbers straight.Why not consider adding these items to your library/ classroom: Math-terpieces, Board Dudes Dry Erase Activity Book - Letters, Numbers, Shapes & Games (Juvenile) (11050UA-4), Sizing Up Measurement: Activities for Grades 3-5 Classrooms or Learning Resources LER1207 Learning Resources 5-Piece Gallon Measurement Set, Grades 1+.

Making Two-Step Equations

If your math students are struggling understanding what "X" or "Y" mean in an equation, help them learn about the values in context by making a word problem. Check out the info in THIS ARTICLE for tips on how to give a value to the variable and how make your own equation.

Teaching Kindergartners Subtraction

If you're looking for some tips on how to enhance your math lesson to kindergartners read THIS ARTICLE for information on how to bring subtraction to life.
I've written about some fun things such as singing sons, using pizza or pie, using flashcards, doing the opposite and more.

Learning Beginning Algebra

Depending upon your age and grasp of mathematics, you might not be ready for algebra until you're in high school. (Take me for example, I freakishly passed the entrance exam for algebra while in the 6th grade, and was terrorized with confusing math homework for weeks in the 7th grade until I was taken back a knotch.) Don't worry, by 9th grade algebra was easier for me to grasp. Just keep in mind that everyone is at their own pace with some things, so don't worry if your child or student doesn't understand Algebra initially. 

If you need some extra help learning (or teaching) algebra, check out the tips in THIS article that break the concepts down. Sometimes practice, practice, practice is what helps the best,

Math Bulletin Board Ideas

The math classroom lends itself to a variety of bulletin board ideas. But sometimes it's difficult to narrow one idea down and go for it!

If you're looking for inspiration, check out THIS ARTICLE which features ideas such as charting, types of triangles, money and telling time. You're sure to find a fresh idea to brighten up that classroom.

Teaching Math with Grids

Check out THIS step-by-step tutorial on how to solve math problems in grids.

Who's On First- Calculating Bases

When I saw the title "How to Calculate the Area of a Base" I couldn't help but think of the classic Abbot & Costello bit "Who's On First".  While my article on calculating bases of different shapes isn't quite as funny- it's completely informational, actually- I just wanted to make sure to pass along this clip and bring a smile to your face.... what a way to start the new year!

How to Teach Measurements

Forms of measurement are everywhere- in cooking, the weather and crafts. Present your students with real-life examples of how we use measurement everyday, in fact- it's one of the most applicable mathematics concepts that we use on a daily basis.

Check out my article on IDEAS FOR TEACHING MEASUREMENT -- including ideas for length, volume, time and temperature -- that are sure to help you in the math classroom.

5th Grade Math Class Bulletin Board Ideas

Photo from: Grant Cochrane

I LOVE writing about bulletin board ideas!  THIS article features ideas for  graphs, division, shapes, fractions, and how to calculate area.... yep, yep, yep, FUN STUFF!

For even more great bulletin board ideas, check out this book, which I've found to be really helpful....                         

What are Interactive Clock Games?

Teach children about the concept of clocks and telling-time with interactive clock games done both in and out of the classroom . With these activities students will learn with computers, and interactive games. This article will provide you with examples of online games and games that help kids get out the "wiggles."

Consider purchasing a set of Judy Clocks for your classroom so that each student can move the hands around on the clocks and learn for themselves how clocks work.

Accounting Bulletin Board Ideas

Even high school teachers need to post bulletin boards to decorate the school room and help explain concepts to students. Follow this link for ideas appropriate for use in accounting classes:

Bulletin Board Ideas for Accounting eHow.com

Enrichment Activities for 4th Grade Math

Enrich the arithmetic classroom with activities that reinforce what students have learned about fractions, counting money, and graphs. Integrate things such as sports and food that will make the concepts relevant to the students, and keep them interested.

Follow the link below to eHow.com for our Egghead's article on enrichment activities for fourth grade arithmetic.

Grade 4 Math Enrichment Activities

Measurement Math Activities

Ever wondered why we use rulers? Why not use paces, or arm spans?

Teach students about measurement by conducting a few simple activities on linear measurement, non-linear measurement, time, and estimation. Follow THIS LINK for some cool math activities on measurement.