Foundation phase maths: Learning through play

Our mathematics theme of the week in geometry is shapes. We are currently focusing on three dimensional shapes. 3D shapes are solid shapes that have three dimensions including length, depth and width. I am teaching the learners about the different faces, edges, vertices and which different 2D shapes it takes to build the 3D shapes.

I believe young learners absorb more information by experiencing mathematical concepts using the different senses; sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. I decided to let them experience the different shapes, by actually building it themselves, with a treat as a reward!

We used Jelly Tots and toothpicks to build our 3D shapes. Firstly, they had to built the 2D shape and name it, that formed the 3D shape. For example, a cube is made out of squares and it has 6 identical sides.

The learner had to build the shape, name it and after successfully explaining the characteristics of the shape, eat all the sweets they used.

We completed pyramids, cuboids, triangular prisms and then afterwards the learners let their imaginations run by designing their own creations!

This learner completed a 3D star.

Here we have the Wall of China.

Another built a house.

It was amazing seeing how creative the kids became, they didn't even eat the sweets after a while, they just wanted to build different shapes and most wanted to take their creations home to show to their families.

###### I love the challenge of making maths fun for these amazing kids!