Do you read picture books during your math block? I think incorporating picture books into math lessons is a perfect way to connect to your students and then hook them with the lesson or activity of the day. During October, I love to read The Hallowiener by Dav Pilkey. Be sure to download the Free Halloween Gift Tag Printable here!
After I read the story, (and if I can wait until Halloween to do so, even better) students have the opportunity to complete stations using these super fun weiner dog number lines. In fact, an idea for a small and useful Halloween gift is one of the wiener dog number lines. You could attach this fun gift tag to the doggie and they could use the number line while completing homework. Download the Free Gift Tag Printable here!
After each student has one of their own number lines, they can use it as a tool to help them finish the stations. The first station includes addition and subtraction practice using number lines. They can play "Race to 20", "Race to 50", etc. In this type of game, a student rolls the foam dice and then adds up the 2 numbers. First player to get to 20, 50, or any other number you have predetermined, wins.
In the next station, you can have students work in small groups and complete these place value puzzles. I just love how this provides much needed fluency practice, without the worksheets. Students can even use snap cubes to have a more tactile experience if they need it.
In the last station students can complete these place value addition mosaics. They can also use their wiener dog number lines to help them solve the problems. If students run out of time to complete these, they can always take them home to finish there (for fun) or they can color the boxes. Either way, they are practicing their addition fluency facts.
Students will have a blast completing these number line activities. They'll be thinking all about Halloween that they won't even realize they are practicing their addition and subtraction! Plus, these stations are perfect for Halloween Week. Wahoo!
Check out these other coordinating posts that focus on Halloween-Themed Classroom Activities and a Halloween Writing Activity!
I hope everyone has a safe and happy Halloween!
