aidemia--modules-lessonanyideas_request	Give a creative idea how to organize and what to do at a part of the lesson
What part of a lesson	Mid-lesson break
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	1
Any other preferences	student with autism, student with ADHD, EL student, Nautical adventure theme

Mid-Lesson Break: Nautical Adventure Theme

Introduction to the Mid-Lesson Break

When teaching mathematics, especially a complex topic like understanding multi-digit whole numbers, it's essential to keep the students engaged and energetic. This Mid-Lesson Break, designed for a Grade 4 class, focuses on a nautical adventure theme to resonate with all students, including those with autism, students with ADHD, and English Learners (EL). The goal of this activity is to reinforce the concept that a digit in a multi-digit whole number represents ten times more than the digit to its right, while providing a fun and interactive experience.

Activity Overview: "Nautical Number Expedition"

Objective

Students will work together to strengthen their understanding of the concept 4.NBT.A.1: recognizing the value of digits in multi-digit numbers. They will engage in a fun, interactive expedition centered around a pirate treasure hunt.

Materials Needed

• Large paper or poster board
• Markers and colored pencils
• Pirate-themed number cards (showing various multi-digit numbers)
• Treasure maps (simple maps guiding them to “treasure” locations around the classroom)
• Nautical-themed props (like hats, eyeglasses, or bandanas)
• Small treasure chests or boxes with rewards (stickers, pencils, etc.)

Activity Steps

1. Set the Scene (5 minutes)

   • Gather the students in a circle.
   • Introduce the activity with an exciting story about pirates searching for treasure. Explain that they will be participating in a "Nautical Number Expedition" to uncover the secrets of numbers and their place value.

2. Treasure Map Distribution (5 minutes)

   • Hand out simple treasure maps to groups of students. Each map will guide them to different locations around the classroom where they will find “treasure” (mini-activities).

3. Mini-Activities: Exploring Place Value (15 minutes)

   • Each location on the treasure map contains a pirate-themed multi-digit number card. Students will engage in the following mini-activities at each location:

     • Activity 1: Number Line Race

       • Students will place their number card in the correct spot on a large number line drawn on the floor. For each correct placement, they will earn a clue to the treasure.

     • Activity 2: Value Exploration

       • In pairs, students will write down the value of each digit in their number card. For example, if they have the number 345, they will identify the 3 as 300, the 4 as 40, and the 5 as 5. Encourage discussions about how the values relate to each other.

     • Activity 3: Crafting a Nautical Number

       • Each group will decorate their number card with illustrations representing the value of each digit. For example, if they have the number 620, they could draw 6 boats to represent 600, 2 fish for 20, and 0 for an anchor.

4. Group Sharing (5 minutes)

   • Once all activities are completed, gather the students back into a circle. Have each group share their insights from their mini-activities focusing on how the values of digits in their multi-digit numbers connect.

Conclusion: Treasure Reveal (5 minutes)

• As a reward for their efforts, reveal the treasure chests! Inside, students will find small rewards for participating, reinforcing the idea that learning is both fun and rewarding.

Notes for Educators

• Ensure that students with autism have clear, visual instructions and possibly a peer buddy to help guide them through the activities.
• Students with ADHD may benefit from movement and hands-on tasks; consider monitoring their engagement levels and providing breaks if needed.
• For English Learners, support language development by using visual aids and allowing them to explain their thoughts verbally in pairs or small groups.

The combination of a nautical theme and interactive learning will help to maintain engagement and make the process of learning about multi-digit numbers memorable and enjoyable for all students!