Primary Geometry: Making the Grade with Shapes

 If you say the word Geometry it can muster up some bad nightmares for a LOT of people.  What can we do in the primary grades to set students up for success down the road?

In primary grades we are focused on plane shapes (2D) and solid figures (3D).  There are three main categories in the standards

• Distinguish between defining attributes and non-defining attributes
• Compose two-dimensional shapes or three-dimensional
  shapes to create a composite shape, and compose new shapes
  from the composite shape
• Partition circles and rectangles into two and four equal shares, describe the shares

When it comes to any math concept, I believe firmly in the hands on conceptual understanding first phase.  Let students play math, apply math, create math, and understand math first hand!  We do this through 5 activities.  Hands on application in a math tub activity, interactive journals, small group instruction, technology, and independent work. 

The following videos were taken last week.  We began our studies of 2D shapes on Monday.  This first video is during our small group time.  Students had to scoop and graph pattern blocks right on the table.  Using geometric language they had to create, analyze, and explain their graphs to me. 

 This video was taken in small group. (where I live)  I see my students in small group every day.  I am able to progress monitor while they are there with me.  You will see that I have the three members of the group working on an independent task while I am able to informally assess one particular student.

Things that also happen during this time:  The students in the math journal rotation are automatically doing a quick check with me during the lesson.  The rest of the class are all in guided math activities around the room.

{ I had to split this video into two because of the size, but the next two videos show the same lesson.}

Taking video of yourself can be terrifying!  Although I want to hide under a rock when I hear my own voice, I hope this is helpful for those just starting out with small group, or wondering how it all fits together.

If you are looking for materials for geometry that keep it hands on and standards based, check out the following links below!