Ideas for Math Scavenger Hunts in K-12
The problem with many math lessons is that they are "dry," often focusing on numbers and mathematical functions in the absence of tangible objects or situations. Studies have found that students have an easier time mastering mathematical concepts when it is connected with a real-world application. A math-based scavenger hunt is a great way to get students interested in the subject while showing them the many uses for mathematics in daily life.
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State Standards
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Before designing your math scavenger hunt, consider the state academic standards that apply to the students in your grade level. Try to incorporate the concepts your students need be familiar with in your scavenger hunt.
Magazines and Newspapers
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For a math scavenger hunt to be completed in a classroom, use newspapers and magazines and have students hunt for specific numbers or types of numbers. Have children cut out the numbers and glue or tape them onto a worksheet. This may include specific values or types of numbers, such as a phone number, a time or a temperature, and can also include geometric shapes.
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Items From Home
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Send kids home with scavenger-hunt items to find. Have students bring in a favorite recipe, then have them add up ingredient amounts to find out how many cups of ingredients would be needed to prepare the recipe. Instruct students to find the total area of their bedroom. Or have them count the ice cubes in their freezer then determine how many cups they would need if they were to put three ice cubes in each cup. Have them count the cups in the cupboard to see if they would have enough.
Items in Stores
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Have students go to a grocery store with a list of items. Have them determine the total cost of those items, including sales tax. Have students weigh a specified number of fruits or vegetables that are sold by the pound and determine the per-item price.
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References
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