I need some fun, challenging math projects/centers for my above grade level math students. Does anyone have any ideas? Right now we're working on number expressions and equations, then we'll move onto graphs and time.
I had my 7th graders watch Cyberchase on PBS and write it up last year. To be honest, it was a little too young for them, but they got a kick out of it.
I posted this a few months ago about a recent project. Mailbox accepted the idea for publication. We did a successful project last week. On day one, we made a simple folded paper (hamburger) study guide for the parts of circles. On black construction paper, students glued a pre-cut circle (fluorescent!) and a 3x5 inch piece next to it. They wrote the terms center, arc, chord, radius, diameter, and circumference. I put out various decorative items (string, pipe cleaners, sequins, beads, glitter glue, etc.). They created the parts of the circle with the decorative items on the circle itself. The terms on the paper served as a key - they glued on a small piece of the decorative item they used on the circle next to each term. Inside the folded paper, they defined the terms. The next day, they 'discovered' circumference. I provided 3 pre-cut circles (also fluorescent - gotta use up that paper) with the center indicated. They had to measure the radius of each circle in cms. Next, they used string to measure the circumference of each circle. They recorded these findings and computed the diameter of each. I asked them to meet with their group members to see if they could see any relationship among the measurements. Fairly quickly, a few students came up with the discovery that the circumference was triple the diameter. Some had to be nudged a little in that direction, but all were ultimately successful. The discussions themselves were very valuable. Last, they had to record their conclusions and the steps in the process, as well. They glued all of the circles and their notes to poster board.
