These activities are appropriate for
grades 3 – 8. I use these games as a way to build
spatial awareness. Math activity stations can be set up
throughout your classroom for students to engage with when
they are finished with other work.
Math Games Using
Cuisenaire Rods
Tower Of Hanoii
On a piece of paper, draw 3 large
circles next to each other. Label them A, B and C.
Start with three Cuisenaire rods of
different shapes stacked like a pyramid in the center
circle.
The goal is to shift all three rods
from the center circle to one of the outside circles,
while following these rules:
You can only move one piece at
time
Pieces must be taken from the top
of the pile and placed in either an empty circle or
on top of an existing pile
Only smaller pieces may be placed
on top of larger pieces
Once you have completed three successfully,
try four and then five
Work your way up to a tower of seven
Cuisenaire Rod Pictures
Set up graph paper that matches the
size of the rods.
Have students form pictures using
the rods on the paper and outline the design.
Other students can then try to replicate
the design on their own with their rods.
They can also put parameters around
their designs, for example asking if they can make the
design just using the given rods. (all red or one of
each color, etc.)
Pattern Blocks
Set up graph paper that matches the
sizes of the pattern block.
Have students form pictures using
the blocks on the paper and outline the design.
Other students can then try to replicate
the design on their own with their pattern blocks.
Pictures may be colored.
Tangrams
Use tangram blocks or cut some out
using card stock paper.
Have students practice putting them
together to form a perfect square.
Students can also form pictures using
all the pieces and outlining it on a blank piece of paper.
Other students try to replicate this
picture using their own blocks.
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