aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Mathematics
What age group	Year or Grade 4
What topic	4.NBT.A.1 Recognize that in a multi-digit whole number, a digit in one place represents ten times what it represents in the place to its right.
Quantity	3
Any other preferences	Nautical adventure themed, EL student, student with ADHD, student with autism

Nautical Adventure: Exploring the Ocean of Numbers

Introduction: Set Sail on the Math Sea!

Ahoy, mathematicians! 🏴‍☠️ Today, we're going to embark on a thrilling nautical adventure where we won't just sail across the ocean but also dive deep into the wonderful world of numbers. Specifically, we will discover the magic of how each digit in a multi-digit whole number represents different values depending on its place!

Objective:

By the end of our adventure, you will be able to recognize how a digit in one place represents ten times what it represents in the place to its right (4.NBT.A.1).

---

The Pirate’s Treasure Map Activity

Materials Needed:

• A large paper treasure map with different locations marked by numbers.
• Colored markers or crayons.
• Small treasure tokens (these could be gold coins or jewels made from paper).
• A whiteboard to visualize numbers.

Step 1: Treasure Mapper

1. Create Your Pirate Identity!

   • Each student will create a pirate name and decorate their treasure map. Use the colored markers to make it colorful and inviting.

2. Number Coding:

   • Together, we’ll draw some examples of multi-digit numbers on the whiteboard and show how each digit can represent different values. For instance, in the number 345, explain:
     • The 3 is in the hundreds place (300).
     • The 4 is in the tens place (40).
     • The 5 is in the ones place (5).

Step 2: Plotting the Treasure Hunt

Once you understand the value of each digit, use your treasure maps to create your own multi-digit numbers at different designated treasure locations.

• For example, if you find a treasure chest marked with the number 120 at a location, discuss as a class:
  • What does the 1 represent?
  • What does the 2 represent?
  • What does the 0 represent?

Step 3: Treasure Tokens

For each correct answer, students will earn a treasure token! Let’s see how many treasures we can collect by the end of our adventure. This way, the more we learn, the more treasure we earn!

---

Engage All Learners

Supporting EL Students:

• Use visual aids and repeated vocabulary. Integrate numbers into their everyday lives by providing them with examples of prices and quantities in stores.

Supporting Students with ADHD:

• Include movement! Have them touch different parts of the treasure map as they discuss the values of each digit, allowing for kinesthetic engagement.

Supporting Students with Autism:

• Create a structured outline for the lesson. Use clear visuals anytime you explain concepts. Provide alternatives for participation, such as individual practice with their maps or working in pairs with supportive peers.

---

Conclusion: Map It and Share!

At the end of the lesson, invite students to share their treasure maps and the exciting multi-digit numbers they created. Encourage them to explain how they discovered each digit's value based on its placement. Remember, on this math adventure, every number is a treasure waiting to be found!

Now, let’s grab our sails and dive back into the ocean of numbers where there's treasure waiting around every corner! 🏴‍☠️✨