Measuring a Block Tower with Kindergartners
Building a block tower provides a natural opportunity to measure height. In this scene, children use string and a broom handle to indirectly compare heights of two towers.
Why is this important?
In a playful way, the teacher is building the skills of justification and proof by asking, “Which tower is taller?” At this stage, though, the desire to build the “biggest” one can override the mathematical evidence!
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The Early Math Collaborative works to improve math instruction for young children in three ways:
- Professional development
- Research
- Dissemination