Tangram puzzle / Activity Analysis

Math

• The child learned geometric shapes and their attributes through manipulating the tangram pieces.
• They practiced spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills by fitting the pieces together to create different shapes.
• The activity reinforced concepts of symmetry and congruence as they had to match the outlines with the tangram pieces.
• The child developed an understanding of fractions as they combined different pieces to form a whole.

Continued development can involve challenging the child to create more complex shapes using the tangram pieces. They can also explore the concept of area by calculating the areas of the shapes they create. Additionally, incorporating tangram puzzles into word problems can help reinforce math skills in a practical context.

Book Recommendations

• The Tangram Zoo and Word Puzzles Too! by Betsy Franco: This book combines tangram puzzles with wordplay, allowing children to solve puzzles and create their own stories.
• Tan's Tangrams by Elizabeth Winthrop: Tan the cat takes the readers on a journey through tangram puzzles, providing instructions and challenges along the way.
• The Emperor's Challenge by Marsha Arons: In this story, the Emperor challenges his subjects to solve a series of tangram puzzles. Readers can solve the puzzles alongside the characters and see who can complete them first.