There is a lot of lumber in Humboldt County — here are some images to ramp up number talks around some real world math.
Author: Michael Kauffmann
Plane Flight Mathematics
On a Cessna flight from an airport in Humboldt County I was inspired to develop a plane flight mathematics lesson — how far can a Cessna fly?
Multiplication Area Model
We all need toilet paper, everyday! Let’s dive into how much it costs and how much we all might have in our houses using the multiplication area model.
Skip Counting
In this activity, we will use skip counting to estimate the number of fires Mr. Kauffmann is prepared to have for the winter.
Marble Run Mechanics
A Kindergarten-Second Grade Exploration Activity Marble run mechanics can be introduced in several ways but I believe the best way is to just let the kids play for as long as it holds their attention. As they are creating various marble runs, move from group to group and provide challenges for them to create more […]
Amusement Ride Mathematics
The Sky Trail is a gondola ride through the redwood forests in Del Norte County, near Redwood National and State parks. As we waited in line to board, we were pondering Amusement Ride Mathematics. A few facts for consideration: Passengers are picked up every 2 minutes Each passenger pays, on average, $10 for the ride […]
Engineering and Designing Battlebots
In this engineering and designing battlebots challenge, students are invited to create a vibrating “robot” using a simple circuit created with a battery and DC motor. Materials: DC 9v motor AA battery and wired batter pack Plastic cup or other light material CD or other design Painter’s tape Glue gun and glue sticks Design choices […]
Ecological Estimation
Ecological estimation is an important skill. It allows scientists to track population sizes, even when populations are quite large.
Multiplication Arrays
The Lumberyard Use Multiplication Arrays to have your students calculate the number of boards in one stack, twelve stacks, and then estimate ALL BOARDS in the lumberyard using the video. Click image to download the worksheet. Extension: these are 2 ‘x 4′ x 12’ boards. How much are the stacks worth if each board is […]
Designing Simple Vehicles
Designing simple vehicles combines science, technology, engineering, art, and math by challenging students to design vehicles that will travel the furthest. Measurement and Engineering Design Supplies: 1. Four wheels 2. Axil (to fit wheels plus straw to go over axil) 3. Car body (cardboard) 4. Clips or tape 5. Glue stick 6. Three pieces of […]