Math Project-Based Learning: Using Data to Extend Projects with Math Concepts
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Math project-based learning: Where did the math go
You dove into project-based learning (PBL) to spark excitement and deeper learning in your microschool, innovative classroom or at home. But somewhere between crafting weather vanes and saving the frogs, you start wondering: “Where’s the math in all this?” Sure, students are engaged, but you’re itching for them to experience math as something more than a disconnected worksheet.
Sound familiar? It’s why math can be the most challenging subject to integrate meaningfully into project-based learning. Let’s dive into a quick fix with math project-based learning!
Is math an afterthought?
Traditional math lessons often feel tacked on to PBL, as though math is the uninvited guest to a great party. This leaves students disengaged, struggling to see its purpose, and frustrated with the need for meaningful connections. If math doesn’t live in the heart of your projects, it risks being another thing to “get through.” And let’s face it: that’s not why you became an educator.
Make math project-based learning the start of the show
Here’s the secret: Math thrives when it solves real problems within your projects.
- Designing a garden? Measure areas and perimeters.
- Creating a recycling plan? Analyze data on waste reduction.
- Planning a class marketplace? Dive into budgeting, pricing, and profit calculations.
Students experience math as a tool they want or need to use, not something they’re forced to endure. Look for authentic ways to add math practice to each project.
Another tip? Let students create their math tools! They can design graphs to chart progress or build models to visualize fractions. When students own the math, their understanding and enthusiasm grow exponentially. Join the conversation with others. Edutopia supplies forum links and more that provide educator discussions about math project-based learning standards.
Start your math project-based learning adventure today
Take your current project and brainstorm where math can naturally fit. Look for opportunities to measure, analyze, or predict. Then, hand over the reins. Let students grapple with math questions that matter to them.
Take a look at one of Rock by Rock’s most popular projects, Save the Elephants. Many opportunities for data collection can be found within this project, like calculatting the distances traveled by elephants looking for water.
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