Art Based Mathematics

Art-based mathematics is one of my students' favorite activities.  Most frequently, we do color by number after they solve equations to find the number.  However, to keep it interesting, I like to switch up the art supplies.  Sometimes it's markers, crayons, or colored pencils.  Other times we use watercolors or dot-markers.  Next year, I plan to try to figure out what kinds of crafts I could make that my students could find the answers for.  These types of activities are very engaging and enjoyable for my students.  My more artistic students really connect to these activities and it lets them shine! 

Below is an example of a color by number that we did after a lesson about Greatest Common Factor (GCF).  We first practice using factor trees to find the GCF on my whiteboard table.  Then we practice using multiplication charts to find the LCM. To fill in the worksheet, the students are allowed to use either strategy to arrive to their conclusion.  They are allowed to work as a group or work independently.  Either way, they go through the process on their own and I provide the necessary scaffolding.  After they have completed the chart, I provide them with materials to use on their picture.