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What to create	Lesson plan
Which subject	Mathematics
What topic	Saxon Lesson Plan 14 Creating Pattern Block Designs
What length (min)	30
What age group	Reception / Kindergarten
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Saxon Lesson Plan 14: Creating Pattern Block Designs

Grade Level

Reception / Kindergarten

Duration

30 minutes

Objectives

• Students will explore shapes and patterns using pattern blocks.
• Students will create their own designs using a variety of pattern blocks.
• Students will enhance their understanding of geometric shapes and their attributes.

Materials Needed

• Assorted pattern blocks (triangles, squares, parallelograms, hexagons)
• Large construction paper (one piece per student)
• Markers or crayons
• Glue (optional for sticking down blocks)
• Chart paper and markers for group discussion

Standards

• K.G.A.1: Describe objects in the environment using names of shapes, and describe the relative positions of these objects using terms such as above, below, beside, in front of, behind, and next to.
• K.G.A.2: Correctly name shapes regardless of their orientations or overall size.

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Begin by gathering students in a circle and displaying different types of pattern blocks.
• Ask students to name the shapes they see.
• Explain the lesson objective: today, they will create their own designs using these shapes.
• Discuss how shape patterns can be found in nature, buildings, and other art forms.

Guided Practice (10 minutes)

1. Shape Exploration:

   • Pass out a small set of pattern blocks to each student.
   • Encourage them to explore the shapes: matching blocks, finding pairs, and stacking shapes.

2. Demonstration:

   • On a large piece of chart paper, demonstrate how to create a simple design (for example, a house) using pattern blocks.
   • Explain which shapes you are using and how they connect to form the design.

Independent Activity (10 minutes)

• Distribute a piece of construction paper to each student.
• Instruct students to create their unique design using the pattern blocks.
• Encourage them to think creatively and use a variety of shapes.

Sharing and Discussion (5 minutes)

• Invite students to share their designs with the class.
• Ask questions like:
  • "What shapes did you use?"
  • "How did you decide to place your shapes?"
  • "Can anyone find a pattern in a friend's design?"

Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Recap the different shapes used and their properties.
• End the lesson by discussing how patterns shape our world and encourage students to look for patterns in their home and environment.
• Remind them that all shapes have special names and can be used in creative ways.

Assessment

• Observe students during the independent activity to determine their understanding of shape recognition and design.
• Use a checklist to note engagement, creativity, and the ability to identify shapes used in their designs.

Extensions

• Provide additional pattern blocks for students who finish early.
• Encourage students to create a pattern with their designs and identify the patterns verbally.

References

• Saxon Math Curriculum for Kindergarten
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Principles and Standards for School Mathematics

This lesson plan encourages creativity while introducing fundamental geometric concepts, aligning with US educational standards for early mathematics education.