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Grid Masters: How Block Building Unlocked Area Concepts- MYP1 Math- Moksha Sharma

Objective of the Learning Engagement

Block Builders: The Area Challenge! Understand the concept of area by constructing grids, applying multiplication to calculate area, and refining problem-solving skills through hands-on activities and collaboration.

Details of the Learning Engagement:

Students were provided with blocks to create a grid of their chosen dimensions by selecting the number of blocks they wished to use. They were then tasked with determining the total area covered by their grid. Beginners counted individual blocks to find the area, while those familiar with the area formula applied it and verified their answers by counting. This approach allowed students to develop a conceptual understanding of area, bridging the gap between concrete and abstract methods. Those who completed the task quickly were given cards with specific area values and challenged to rearrange their blocks to match the given area. This encouraged them to explore different length and width combinations, reinforcing the flexibility of area representation while applying their knowledge in a dynamic setting.

In the final 20 minutes, students received new area cards and had to modify their grids by adjusting the length and width accordingly. To enhance their critical thinking, groups exchanged area cards and modified their grids by adding or removing blocks to match the new values. This interactive process required students to analyze how changes in dimensions affected the total area, promoting deeper comprehension through trial and error. The activity not only reinforced multiplication as a method for calculating area but also fostered collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability. As students worked together, they discussed strategies, shared insights, and refined their understanding through peer interactions. The hands-on nature of the task kept engagement high, making the learning experience both meaningful and enjoyable.

Impact of the engagement on students and reflection as a teacher:

This engagement had a strong impact on students by deepening their conceptual understanding of area through hands-on exploration. By allowing them to physically manipulate blocks, they connected abstract mathematical formulas to tangible representations, reinforcing their comprehension. The challenge of rearranging blocks to match given area values enhanced their flexibility in problem-solving and encouraged logical thinking. Additionally, peer discussions and collaborative adjustments fostered teamwork, communication, and adaptability, making learning a dynamic and interactive process.

As a teacher, this activity highlighted the power of experiential learning in building mathematical confidence. Observing students transition from counting individual blocks to efficiently applying the area formula demonstrated their growth in understanding. The exchange of area cards pushed them to think critically and experiment with different dimensions, reinforcing the adaptability of mathematical concepts. This experience reinforced the importance of integrating hands-on activities into lessons, as they not only enhance engagement but also cultivate deeper problem-solving skills and conceptual mastery.

-Moksha Sharma

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