Sparrows 2018-19: Math Workshop: Shapes

Since the music room is being used for picture day today and tomorrow, Keisha traveled to our classroom for music class. We began with singing "Jambo" and then moved into "The Cobbler." The Sparrows requested "This is My Place," which is a song that friends sang last week in music that helps with memory, self-awareness and personal space.

Another movement song we sang was "Turn Cinnamon Turn." For this song, each verse names a different body part to move, whether it be clapping your hands, bouncing, swinging or your whole body.

Next, the Sparrows played Echo Me. For this, Keisha tapped a beat on her drum and friends echoed the beat by clapping their hands.

Our final activity was to read and move to The Animal Boogie. When Keisha brought out the book, many friends shared, "I have that book at home!" Friends enjoyed guessing which animals were hiding in the jungle, and then dancing and moving the way the animal was.

We ended music with Keisha by singing the goodbye song.

After music, we had morning meeting, where friends learned that they would be participating in a math workshop on shapes. To get ready for our workshop, the Sparrows watched a short catchy video titled Shape Name Game.

Below is a list of the different centers we had set up in the room for our shape math workshop.

1. Popsicle stick shapes

At this center, friends made shapes out of popsicle sticks. We put a circle out to see if we could trick friends but the Sparrows could not be fooled! Friends said a circle is round and popsicle sticks are straight and we cannot use them to make a circle. Friends used glue to keep their popsicle sticks in place.

A large focus of the work friends did today was on shape identification and recognition, as well as hand-eye coordination and fine motor development.

2. Pattern blocks

At the second station, Sparrows used pattern blocks to complete a pattern block template. Friends chose a sheet and then set out to complete the task set forth. This center was a great way for friends to practice one-to-one correspondence, patience, and seeing how you can make different items using different shapes.

3. Shape wands

At the shape wand center, friends wrote their names on popsicle sticks, and then chose a shape to decorate. After decorating, friends pasted their chosen shapes onto popsicle sticks, creating a shape wand!

4. Foam shape creations

At our fourth station, friends used foam shapes to design their own creations. Friends laid out their design first, and then pasted down their pieces. Creations ranged from rainbows, cakes, robots and more.

Before beginning at each center, friends took a couple of breaths to settle and focus themselves. Once friends heard the music playing, they were free to begin. Once time was up at a given center, we would turn off the lights, letting friends know it was time to switch.

The Sparrows truly did a wonderful job with each station. Friends were focused and gave their best!