Synopsis
This primarily math focused unit will be geared toward students improving their numerical reasoning through symbolic representations of numbers. The ability to subitize, or instantly recognize numeric representations of numbers, particularly of small quantities, has shown to be a crucial factor in developing early math computation skills. We will explore concepts of numeracy and the history of numeral systems. Learning about a variety of numeral systems will help them better understand the relationship between numbers and the many ways they can be represented. Multiple children’s books will be studied to analyze ways numeric concepts can be presented using symbolism and stories. Students will learn that there are multiple ways to represent numbers and to count, each having an appropriate use. There will be opportunities to recreate a variety of math tools to provide practice in utilizing numeric representations. Students will choose a way to symbolically represent their assigned class number in a design that will become a personal stamp using a 3D printer.