We have dealt with Activity-Based Learning in chapter 4.5 to 4.7 in the section dealing with Pre-Primary School. But it is relevant at all levels of math learning, at least in the K-8 stage.
It would be good if each student has an individual math kit, consisting of the following.
Math Kit
Bottle tops for
Number properties & patterns
Integer representation & operations
4 basic operations
Ice-cream sticks with rubber bands
2-digit Number representations
Number properties
Sheets, Strips & Pieces
3-digit Number representations
Number properties
Sheets of used paper
Angle properties
Triangle properties
Algebra Patterns
Dotted sheets
Algebra & geometry patterns
Broom sticks (about 10” long)
Multiplication facts
Geometry Box
Set squares for angle operations
Compass for geometrical designs
Classroom Activities
The activities can be in the classroom or in the Math Activity Centre. In the classroom, due to the lack of space, the activities will mostly be individual activities using materials which can easily fit on the student’s desk.
Math Activity Centre
One of the block periods can be used for taking students to the Math Activity Centre where students can work both individually & in groups. Doing an activity as a group allows free flow of ideas and creativity. The Centre can have activity materials which cannot be easily used on a student desk in the classroom.
Proof of Pythagoras Theorem
Algebra tiles for algebraic expressions, equations & identities
Triangle Kit for proving triangle properties
Math puzzles & games
PCs with software like GeoGebra
Field Activities
Many of the activities can be carried out with students on the playground.
Arrays & Rows
Cartesian Plane
Set operations