Block Party
How it works
Given the outline of a shape, can you fit pattern blocks together to make the shape? If so, can you find more than one way to do it?
In this activity, students try to make a variety of different shapes using pattern blocks. As they do so, they discover relationships between different pattern blocks that they can use to find different ways to make the same shape. Students also play a game as a team where each member of the team is assigned a shape to make and given some pattern blocks, and the goal is for all the team members to make their shapes. But there's a catch: The pattern blocks each team member gets to start might not be the ones they need in order to make their shape! Students have to cooperate with each other by exchanging pattern blocks in order for everyone to make their shape.
Why we like this activity
- It’s fun! Students enjoy trying to make the different shapes.
- It helps students develop geometric reasoning.
It requires students to engage in mathematical habits of mind:
Using logic and finding and using strategies when trying to make different shapes
Using logic and finding and using strategies when trying to find different ways to make the same shape
- It has a low floor and a high ceiling: Students can get started making shapes by trial and error, but as the shapes get more difficult, they need more careful strategizing.
