| Lesson start ideas | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Mathematics |
| What age group | Year or Grade 7 |
| What topic | Integer |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
Are you tired of math being a number game? Do you wish there was some creativity involved in learning about integers? Look no further! In this lesson, we are going to explore integers in a new and exciting way.
Begin by drawing a large snake on the board with the head at the left side and the tail at the right. Label the head with a positive integer, say 7. Label the sections of the snake with the sequence of consecutive integers, increasing towards the tail. For example, the next section would be labeled 8, the next after that, 9, and so on.
Now, ask each student to pick a number, either positive or negative, and write their choice on a slip of paper. Next, have them place the slip of paper on the snake at the corresponding number. For example, if a student chooses -2, they would place their slip of paper on the snake where -2 is written.
Once all students have chosen a number, begin by placing a counter on the head of the snake. Ask the class what the integer on the head of the snake represents and move the counter that many sections forward. If the integer on the head is positive, move the counter towards the tail of the snake. If the integer is negative, move backwards towards the head of the snake.
Continue taking turns, asking what integer is on the section that the counter is on, and moving the counter accordingly. If the counter moves off the snake, wrap it around to the other end of the snake and continue.
This visual representation of integers will make the concept more engaging and easier to understand. It also allows for practice in addition and subtraction with positive and negative integers.
In this lesson, we have explored a new and creative way to learn about integers using a snake game. By visualizing integers in this way, students will have an easier time understanding this important mathematical concept and will be more engaged in their learning.