Try a hands-on math and science activity that can be used in middle
school classrooms to address several state math and science
standards. In this activity, students estimate what it would take to
fill their classroom with popcorn.
Stop by the NISMEC booth or the Mathematical Origami workshop at the
Hoosier Association for Science Teachers Conference. Learn to fold
magic pinwheels, Sonobe polyhedra, hyperbolic paraboloids, PHiZZ
polyhedra, and other origami structures.
Each semester, we tackle a community research project and write
up our results. This semester we are investigating different
bases, including fractional bases, using Jim Tanton's exploding
boxes approach.
As an active member of the national SIGMAA on Math Circles, we
presented two activities as part of the session at the Joint Math
Meetings in San Francisco. About 30 students and adults participated
in our One-Cut Theorem and Sona Designs activities.
The Math and Technology Academy is a free program open to the
public. Students of all ages can get help with homework, work on
a guided independent study project, or try one of our hands-on
math activities.
Working with administrators and teachers, we supported the
implementation of a new math program for high-ability students in
4th through 6th grades at all seven elementary schools. We also
worked with John Young Middle School teachers to examine math
instruction at the middle school level.
Working with administrators, curriculum leaders,
and teachers, we identified ways to strengthen
math instruction for students at many Title 1
Primary Centers in South Bend.
