Hands On Learning with Blogger Buddies

I am a huge lover of hands-on, fun learning!  I love using fun, novel things to catch my students' attention.  Cute and inventive "props" get kid's interest right off the bat.

I am going to share one of my favorite tools to teach decomposing and composing numbers.  This comes from my friend Jennifer Drake.  She blogs over at Crayons, Cuties in Kindergarten.  If you haven't visited her blog yet, you need to check it out!

Jenn developed two monster "tools" to help students compose and decompose numbers.  These are difficult concepts for students, who are just learning the skills.  These monsters are easily made out of everyday materials.  Cereal bar boxes create the body of the monsters.  Jenn gives very specific directions (pictures and words) to show you how to build these awesome monsters!

If you want to build the composing monster, click here.  

To make it even more amazing, she is providing the directions and printables for FREE!

Here are some glimpses into the composing monster.  You put the counters in the two sides and they come out into the monster's mouth.

You even get a recording sheet!

 

Here is the decomposing monster!  You can get the free directions and printables here.

You can see the full directions on how to make the decomposing monster on Crayons, Cuties, and Kindergarten.  Drop the counters into his mouth and he will decompose into 2 groups.

Here is a preview for the recording sheets.

This is my first link up with Blogger Buddies Wednesday Weekly Link Up!  I am especially excited about this linky, because it promotes collaboration between teachers and helps build beautiful friendships!  Be sure to check out some other Blogger Buddies :)