More on Math

Since my post, Math in the Real World, a few days ago, I went to the library and checked out some of the recommended books. One book in particular, It's The Story That Counts: More Children's Books for Mathematical Learning, K-6 by Whitin and Wilde, has been full of ideas. So many that I may have my ten year old's math curriculum for this year. She loves stories and hates math, I'm hoping a literature approach to math will help her get over the math hurdle. Some books they recommend highly are:

• Anno's Mysterious Multiplying Jar
• Counting on Frank
• Pumpkins

It's not just about reading them. But reading them several times and then drawing the child out to discover their own mathematical thinking. For instance, Frank in Counting on Frank wonders all kinds of things. How long a line will an average ball point pen draw? Whitin and Wilde give examples of different directions kids go with this kind of mathematical thinking. Some wonder how long a line chalk will draw. Some want to figure out the answer in miles instead of yards. Some might wonder how many pens it would take to draw a line around the earth. The children then draw their story. All kinds of mathematical concepts are being played with, but it is more focused on what is already going on in the child and their reactions and questions than a traditional text full of problems would be.

I'm really having fun with this. There will certainly be more later.