Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will create a personalized fidget board using various materials, while applying mathematical concepts such as measurement, geometry, and design principles. The student will also enhance their fine motor skills and creativity through this hands-on project.

Materials and Prep

• Cardboard or a sturdy base (like a piece of wood)
• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• Markers or paint for decoration
• Various small objects (buttons, beads, rubber bands, etc.) for fidgeting
• Ruler for measuring
• Pencil for marking designs

Before starting the lesson, ensure that the student understands basic measurement concepts and has a safe workspace to use scissors and other tools.

Activities

• Design Your Board:

  Have the student sketch their fidget board design on paper. They should think about the layout, which objects they want to include, and how they will arrange them. This helps practice geometry and spatial awareness.

• Measure and Cut:

  Using a ruler, the student will measure and cut the base of their fidget board. This activity emphasizes accuracy in measurement, which is a key math skill.

• Assemble and Decorate:

  Once the base is ready, the student will glue or tape the selected fidgeting objects onto the board. They can also decorate the board with markers or paint, allowing for creativity while reinforcing design principles.

• Test Your Fidget Board:

  After assembling, the student can test their fidget board to see how it feels and functions. They can discuss what they like or what they might change, promoting critical thinking and reflection.

Talking Points

• "Why do you think fidget boards are helpful? They can help us focus and reduce stress!"
• "Let’s talk about measurements. Why is it important to measure accurately when creating something?"
• "What shapes do you see in your design? Recognizing different shapes helps us understand geometry better!"
• "How can we arrange objects on the board to make it both functional and visually appealing?"
• "What materials do you think will be the most fun to use? Let’s explore how different textures can change our experience!"
• "After testing your board, what changes would you make? This is a great way to practice problem-solving!"
• "How does creating something with your hands make you feel? It’s important to express ourselves creatively!"