Introducing sophisticated mathematical ideas like fractals and infinity, these hands-on activity books present concepts to children using interactive and comprehensible methods. With intriguing projects that cover a wide range of math content and skills, these are ideal resources for elementary school mathematics enrichment programs, regular classroom instruction, and home-school programs. Reproducible activity sheets lead students through a process of engaged inquiry with plenty of helpful tips along the way. A list of useful terms specific to each activity encourages teachers and parents to introduce students to the vocabulary of math. This second Big Ideas book covers more advanced concepts, with projects including “One in a Million,” where children use grains of rice to model the probability of astronomical odds; “Triangular Tessellations,” in which students investigate the geometry and variations created by repeating patterns; and “Fractions of Salaries,” where kids use a real-world scenario to multiply and divide fractions. 

Ann Kajander is an experienced classroom teacher who is currently an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at Lakehead University. She is the author of two previous books of creative mathematical activities for children. Her research interests include mathematics education, pre-service education, teacher mathematics knowledge, the development of mathematics for teaching, and teacher beliefs.

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"Intriguing, hands-on projects that demonstrate basic mathematical concepts."  “Curriculum Connections

"Provides math teachers with great hands-on ideas to reinforce concepts in unique ways."  “School Library Journal

"Written directly to the student and using simple materials, this is a good guide for the classroom or to use independently."  “Connect

"Helps teachers explore challenging math concepts using 20 simple, fun and creative activities."  “Curriculum Review

"Are you trying to get your students involved in learning math” Then you need to get this book!"  “Teaching Children Mathematics