Children are more engaged when they care about what they’re learning. They are more likely to remember concepts when they see a reason for using them. Here are some hands-on ideas for learning math with nature.
1. Calculate the height of a tree using its shadow.
2. Estimate the number of pine cones in a pile or container.
3. Measure the size of leaves, the height of seedlings, the length of pine cones.
4. Count petals, leaves, pebbles.
5. Look for spirals, fractals, and coils.
6. Find Fibonacci numbers in nature.
7. Draw a map of your yard; let every inch be the length of your stride.
8. Build a birdhouse.
9. Make jam or raspberry cobbler.
10. Order pine cones from smallest to biggest.
11. Group similar leaves together.
12. Search for symmetry in leaves, butterflies, and flowers.
13. Use a rain gauge to measure the rain.
14. Record the results on a chart or graph.
15. Use sticks to make geometric shapes.
16. Use items from nature to make patterns.
17. Find right angles outdoors.
18. Learn about tally marks with sticks.
19. Calculate the age of a tree using its rings.
20. Make hummingbird food.
21. Learn about sequences by studying the life cycle of a plant or animal.
22. Graph the birds that visit your feeder.
23. Use a barometer to teach positive and negative numbers.
There are many more ways you can go about learning math with nature with your kids.
What are some of your favorites?
This post is part of a 10 Day Learning with Nature Series. If you enjoyed this activity, you might want to take a look at the other posts in the series.
For more nature activities, check out the other posts in the 10 Day Learning with Nature series.
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