Every Day Counts!

Every Day Counts is grounded in a series of “elements” that serve to make up our weekly math skills block. Here is an overview of the elements we have discussed in November.

CALENDAR

This month we recognized patterns of 4 and 8. We also compared and analyzed attributes of quadrilaterals (shapes with four sides). Our calendar contained squares, rectangles, rhombi and trapezoids (right and isosceles trapezoids). We also discussed 90 degree rotations (turns) of the quadrilaterals on the calendar, and whether or not each contained symmetry. 

DAILY DEPOSITOR

While deepening our understanding of place value and our Base-10 number system, we multiplied numbers by 100 (such as 17 x 100) and added money amounts up to five-digit numbers. 

MEASUREMENT

With this element, we converted cups to quarts and examined mixed numbers. For example, we renamed 5/4 cups as being equivalent to 1 ¼ cups.

COUNTING TAPE

On the upper counting tape, we focused on adding one-hundredth each day (such as in placing 0.45 on the counting tape on the 45th day of school). This element continues to enable us to think about patterns and place value with decimal numbers.
Our focus on the lower counting involved exploring multiples and factors (whole numbers). We also looked at patterns in the multiples. Our counting tape shows us, for example, that 2 (heart), 4 (square), and 5 (five pointed star) are factors of 40 (and 40 is a common multiple of these numbers).

COIN COUNTER

With this element, we continue to add one penny ($0.01) each day. While keeping track of our growing balance, we perform mental math problems as we solve hypothetical addition and subtraction problems. We also discuss proper notation of decimal amounts as well as fraction and percent equivalents.

As each new month begins, the mathematical emphases change and the elements are adjusted to accommodate our new focuses. Now that December has begun, we have started a new round of discussions. EVERY day counts!

Students, what is your favorite element in our math skills block and WHY? Leave a comment to share your thoughts.