Teaching Mathematics Outside the Classroom
Algebra
Algebra is a difficult word to describe to younger children and rather it would be better to show them an example of algebra in the school environment. Children can identify patterns outside and furthermore create and design their own patterns in this strand.
100 square pattern. Place counters on the multiples of 2, 4, 5 and 10 on a hundred square outside. Ask children can they identify the patterns.
Patterns. Colour in odd or even numbers on a large 100 square. Ask children can they identify the patterns.
Patterns in our environment. Children identify patterns in their own environment such as colour and shape. Draw their own building using shape and colour patterns they saw.
Leaf sorting. In the Autumn term, children collect a range of different leaves outside. They should choose leaves of different shape, colour and size. Children sort leaves into shape, colour or size. Next they can make a pattern. For example big leaf, small leaf, big leaf, small leaf or red leaf, green leaf, yellow leaf, red leaf, green leaf, yellow leaf.
Making algebraic equations. Children collect 20 sticks. They can create many algebraic equations using sticks. Have laminated pictures of +, - and =. Children place sticks down between laminated symbols to create an equation. Leave one box before the equal sign blank. For example a sticks + 5 sticks = 11 sticks. Solve equation.
