Block Party
How it works
Pattern blocks come in 6 different colors and shapes:
Given the outline of a shape, can you fit pattern blocks together to make the shape? What if you're not allowed to use certain types of blocks?
In this activity, students try to make a variety of different shapes using pattern blocks. At first, they're allowed to use any blocks they want, but then they're challenged make the shapes while following specific rules regarding certain blocks they're not allowed to use.. These rules make it much tricker — and, in some cases, impossible — to make the shapes.
Students also play a game as a team where each member of the team is assigned a shape to make and given some pattern blocks, and the goal is for all the team members to make their shapes. But there's a catch: The pattern blocks each team member gets to start might not be the ones they need in order to make their shape! Students have to cooperate with each other by giving each other blocks in order for everyone to make their shape.
Recording / Challenges handout
Why we like this activity
It’s fun! Students enjoy trying to make the different shapes.
It helps students develop geometric reasoning.
It requires students to engage in mathematical habits of mind:
- Using logic and finding and using strategies when trying to make different shapes
It has a low floor and a high ceiling: Students can get started making shapes by trial and error, but making the shapes without using certain blocks requires more careful strategizing.
