Playing outdoors / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to apply basic arithmetic skills while playing outdoors.

Materials and Prep

  • No materials required
  • Prior knowledge of addition and subtraction

Activities

  1. Counting Steps:

    While playing outside, count the number of steps you take. Start from a specific point and count each step you take until you reach another point. Repeat this activity a few times, trying different paths and counting the steps each time. After each round, ask yourself questions like:

    • "If I took 10 steps forward and then 5 steps backward, how many steps did I move in total?"
    • "If I took 8 steps forward and then 3 steps forward again, how many steps did I move in total?"
    • "If I took 6 steps forward and then 2 steps backward, how many steps did I move in total?"

  2. Jumping Math:

    Find a flat surface outside and mark a starting point. Stand at the starting point and jump forward, counting the number of jumps you take. Repeat this activity multiple times, trying different distances and counting the jumps each time. After each round, ask yourself questions like:

    • "If I jumped 5 times and then jumped 3 more times, how many jumps did I make in total?"
    • "If I jumped 6 times and then jumped 2 more times, how many jumps did I make in total?"
    • "If I jumped 7 times and then jumped 4 more times, how many jumps did I make in total?"

Second Grade Talking Points

  • "Mathematics is not just about numbers on paper, but it can also be applied in real-life situations, like while playing outdoors."
  • "Counting steps helps us keep track of how far we have moved."
  • "Adding and subtracting the number of steps we take helps us find out the total distance we have covered."
  • "Jumping and counting the jumps can also be a fun way to practice addition and subtraction."
  • "By combining physical activity with math, we can make learning more enjoyable and engaging."