Dows Lane Elementary School second grade students in Michael McQuillan and Crystal Raymond’s class recently took part in a hands-on math activity that combined movement, collaboration and critical thinking – bringing classroom learning to life in a meaningful way.
As part of the Eureka Math² unit, “Money, Data and Customary Measurement,” the students have been learning about coin values and money concepts. To reinforce this knowledge, the teachers designed an interactive vertical learning activity that challenged them to present various cent amounts in different ways.
“The students were using their knowledge of coin amounts to find configurations different from their peers to show the cent amount on paper,” McQuillan said. “Some students tried to show the most efficient way to show the amount, and others explored different combinations. They also used communication skills to present their coins, as well as ask for feedback.”
Working in small groups, the students used one marker per team to record their work – an intentional strategy that encouraged turn-taking, active listening and participation. As they rotated through the task, the students demonstrated mathematical understanding, practiced articulating their reasoning and providing constructive feedback to their peers.
“I was very proud of the students in their communication and collaboration,” McQuillan said. “Every student was an engaged citizen, knew the task at hand, and was present during their turn with the marker and when their peers had the marker. Students also showed how to be effective communicators. They listened to others’ perspectives and presented their ideas in a respectful way. The communication was free-flowing and productive.”
