How can you get a bunch of 1st graders excited about shapes? Take them outside to build!
First, they’re on the hunt for the perfect stick, leaf, or pinecone to bring to their building spot. Next, they work on rearranging parts to make their shape look just right. Finally, they take a lap around the shape museum after the building is complete to see everyone’s shape showpieces!
On a recent morning at Barrington Elementary School, enthusiasm radiated from each first grader as they tried to make a trapezoid with parallel sides or break a stick to make their square just right. They found triangles were the easy shape, where the circle proved to be a bit tricky.
The shape museum naturally teaches problem solving, identifying shape attributes, and counting sides and vertices all with the joy of endless possibilities and the unexpected delights of being outside!