We start off the beginning of the school year with lots of different types of simple patterning processes in my classroom and recently, we explored making apple patterns…
Because we have a mixed age group (ages 3 to 5) in our class, some of the patterns are simple AB patterns (for our younger students) and some of the patterns are AABB (for our older students or those who are ready for a little bigger challenge)….
On the table were yellow and red apples, yellow and red markers, and a sentence strip for each child to use as a guide for making their apple patterns. The children started by setting the apples across the sentence strip in their pattern…
Next the children remove the apples off of the strip and then finish the pattern on the strip with red and yellow markers…
Not every child would remember to remove their apples from the strip before drawing their own apples (circles) to complete the pattern but as long as they were getting the idea, we didn’t worry about it…
As the children worked on their patterns, Mrs. Courtney or I would stop by the patterning center to see how things were going and to help the children through the process as needed. This was the first time the children tried this process but we will repeat this same patterning process using other objects throughout the school year and as we do, the children will not need our guidance…
The children did a terrific job and after they completed their patterns, they folded them up like a book, wrote their name on them and put them in their cubbies to take home. We kept the apples and used them for our snack time and other activities we had planned…
Oh, and this is me showing the children how to make their patterns before sending them off to try this on their own…
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That’s very smart, children absolutely can learn from a simple thing 🙂
I agree Danny, with time, love, and patience. Thank you for sharing. Best, [email protected]
This activity/lesson goes to show that we all learn each and everyday. The children were able to learn about colors, shapes, drawing/tracing, healthy snack, following instructions, and most of all making the effort of doing the project. Thank you for sharing this Life Lesson. Best, [email protected]
What awesome hands on learning you have going on in your classroom. I love it. Soon these little ones will begin seeing patterns in words because you have set them up right. 🙂
Deborah. I stand in awe as normal of your ability to share with the wider world at such an amazing caliber, but I simply must take a minute to thank you for your grasp and ability to share such incredible learning. The children in your care are so fortunate and the rest of us just stand and applaud.
Sure hope we have a couple of minutes in Atlanta, but if the time evaporates — please know that I continue to be one of your biggest fans.
Saw this over at Pinterest and just felt compelled to say, THANKS!!!
Debbie
Ah Debbie,
What a sweet comment. I look forward to seeing you in Atlanta! I hope we have some time together too:)