I'm getting observed next week and I'm thinking about doing a math lesson. I teach first grade. I'd like to do something for teaching patterns. Any ideas would be appreciated. I definitely want my first observation to go perfect!! Thanks
I've done patterns with the kids (such as boy, girl, boy, girl; or red shirt, stripe shirt). It gets the kids up and moving. You could make huge pattern block cut outs for the students to hold to make a human pattern. I've also had pattern block cut outs for the students to use to make their own pattern on black construction paper.
I also teach 1st grade, and we do a lot of patterns with the flannel board and pecies, also we use stencils and let the kids make patterns, you could have them do clapping and snapping patterns too.
I have done patterns using strips of bulletin board paper (usually about 4 inches wide and usually black) and seasonal die-cut patterns (fall leaves look great). I teach a lesson on patterns, and then let them create their own with the cut-outs on the paper. It's also a good idea to ask them to show you their pattern before they glue it down so you can assess if they truly made a pattern. These are very festive to decorate your room with too!
