K-12math.info
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Life outside the classroom for the fourth grader ( age 9).

Why does mathematics exist?
Every learning community has a need to quantify some aspects in its environment. Its language(s), economic and social environment determines how much content will be adopted and adapted to meet those aspects. Unfortunately increase globalization is bringing about changes.
    These activities impact learners in their daily life. What mathematics is needed to provide success?

  1. Some thoughts on blending activities: thanks to Darche, Reed, Leven and Heater (students of Dr. N.Scagnoli ) for their contributions in WikiBooks Blended Learning In Grades 3-6. Also check their references.


  2. Bicycles/tricycles: Using, buying, fixing and repairing bikes provides many opportunities for math learning. The Bicycle in Zimbabwe


  3. Wireless communication: The world is being impacted by pay as you go devices. What they can do and paying for them are great sources in mathematical activities.


  4. Traveling: Activities before, during and after traveling in a bus? ...train? ... car? ... airplane? ... subway?


  5. The market: Where is the best place to buy? Do you want to buy vegetables in a place that sells meat? Why? Is there a mathematical reason why?


  6. Small World: No learning community is isolated form other communities. Trade, currency and currency conversions are a reality for all. There are many arithmetic opportunities.


  7. Micro businesses: After school a student helps around the small store. There are many mathematical opportunities here.


  8. Games: Students always find time to play games. There are many mathematical opportunities here.


  9. A World of possibilities. What are the educational requirements needed for different professions . It is never too early to explore what is needed.


  10. Help in building a home: Explore the local materials needed to construct a house. Where do they come from? How do they get to your town? How much is needed? How much does it cost? etc.

  11. Water: Before going to school a student maybe required to help in obtaining drinking water for the family. There are mathematical opportunities here.


  12. Future learning: needed for topics that will be developed in coming years.


  13. Problem solving 1: Explore problem solving by looking at how many everyday activities involve observing.


  14. Problem solving 2: Explore problem solving by looking at how many everyday activities are predictable. Finding patterns.


  15. Problem solving as defined by George Pólya in How to Solve It is still a classic and has a place in every grade level.

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