The Magically Miraculous Math class began with icebreakers for students to become acquainted with one another. The instruction for Monday, June 14 consisted of two problems to gauge where each student is mathematically. The first problem consisted of using a calendar, selecting dates, summing the dates, and finding a formula to determine which four dates were chosen. This activity was found on Rice University’s website. For more information, go to http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/Lessons/calen.html.
Although none of the students came up with the solution demonstrated on Rice University’s website, several students were able to come up with an acceptable solution. This has allowed students to understand that there is more than one way to solve a problem.
The second activity consisted of a problem about rabbit reproduction rates. The students were able to see that the reproduction rate followed a pattern known as the Fibonacci sequence. This sequence is 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, … Each number is generated by adding the previous two numbers. We then talked about how to develop a recursive formula for this sequence. More information about this can be found on The On-Line Encyclopedia of Integer Sequences.
I have found that the two periods I am teaching are at different levels in their mathematics education; therefore, I will develop instruction for the appropriate level of the class. This means that the two periods will cover separate topics.
I have enjoyed the first day of class and look forward to seeing the children grow as the camp continues.
-Tyler Clark
Magically Miraculous Math teacher