Decimal place value- today's target group lesson

The target maths group was learning about decimal place value and how to represent various numbers in place value houses. Their focus over the next week is:

Learning Intention:  To understand decimal place value and the order of numbers

Success Criteria

• read and write decimals accurately, moving between the written, spoken, and symbolic form of decimals.
• understand the role of the decimal point and the relationship among tenths, hundredths, and thousandths.
• complete and explain grids to form a picture of a decimal value.
• compare and order decimals and use this skill to solve basic word problems.

The picture shows 3.5, where first they had to correctly place the digits in their place value houses. Then they worked out each 1/10th had to be represented by a single place value block because of the 0.5 part of the number. They worked out there were 10/10ths in one whole, so each whole (or unit) had 10 blocks. They formed three groups of 10 (3 x 10/10ths or 1 whole) and there were 5 blocks (5/10ths or 0.5) remaining to add- 35 blocks in total. Well done group!

Maths- Fractions TIP

Room 13 has started a Fractions unit in Maths.  Part of today's lesson was coming up with a TIP (term, information, picture) to represent what we know about fractions.

Mobius Strips- How many sides does a strip of paper have?

Mobius strips are made by taking a length of paper, putting a twist in it, then joining the ends.  After looking at these strips, and having to answer some questions, the class began to question everything they thought we knew about a strip of paper. You see, Mobius strips have only one side!  If you follow the curve of the strip with your finger you end up on the other side of the strip from where you started from, which, mathematically, means you are still on the same plane (side).

They get even more interesting if you attempt to cut them in half (along the red line in the photo).  You would expect to end up with two separate, distinct loops but no!  Instead, you get one stip with two twists in it!  Try and follow a side with your eyes back to the start.

However, if you cut the strip close to one side and follow this around the Mobius strip, an even more curious thing happens- you end up with two strips linked together, one loop inside the other.

Repeat the process and, did you guess? Three loops, two as above and the third looped through the first two.  We stopped there but the process can continue for quite some time.

There's an algorithm which explains all of this mathematically.  I'm leaving that to the experts.

We have moved on to Measurement in Maths- these clips explain perimeter and area.

This is the perimeter explanation- below is area.  Take the time to view and discuss with your child.

Our Transformation maths unit began with this Youtube clip

We have been learning about the various types of 'average' there are in Statistics.

Hers's Mr C helping the class understand the three types of average- the mean, the mode and the median. He looks like he's having a good time and obviously believes Maths should be fun!

Week 2 Geometric Designs.

While Mr Jordan took the class he engaged the students in developing their drawing skills by using compasses to create a range of geometric designs.  They add colour and vibrancy to the classroom wall and showcase some of the artistic talent within Room 10.