Mixing in Math consists of several projects based at TERC, a non-profit center for math and science education in Cambridge, MA. On a limited budget? MiM is free.
MiM starts with the routines, projects, and games that make up out-of-school time at centers, public programs, and homes. MiM resources show how to mix math into all of these—and much more. Children learn that math can be part of the things they enjoy. And facilitators don’t need to set up a separate “math time.” (MiM can be a separate program—but it doesn’t have to be.) MiM is designed to mesh wi
th facilitators’ (and children’s) goals—which often include much more than math. Need a way to involve everyone in cleaning up? MiM offers activities that combine estimating, counting, and timing with clean up. Want to keep children occupied when they’re waiting in line? Try a MiM game in which children explore patterns and shapes around them. Trying to build unity among the group? Use a MiM project that requires cooperative problem-solving. Facilitator have many competing demands on their time. MiM offers realistic ways to combine math learning with other important goals. MiM meets the realities and constraints of today’s facilitators. Activities and projects use only a few common materials, such as old paper towel tubes and scrap paper. No time to attend a workshop? MiM is easy to use—no training needed. Limited planning time? Most MiM activities require no advance prep. MiM is written at a 5th-6th grade reading level for those with low loteracy or little time to read.. MiM was developed with input from hundreds of facilitators in realistic settings—from high staff turnover, to no paid prep time, to shrinking budgets. MiM provides for learning in different social groups and alongside people with varying abilities. Got a mixed ability group? Lead a basic MiM activity with everyone and then direct individuals to “easy,” “medium,” or “hard” variations. Not sure how many people will show up? MiM offers resources for whole groups, small groups, pairs, and individuals. GOt a group with a limited (or long) attention span? With over 200 resources to choose from, select what fits the time at hand. MiM takes into account the variation in math, language, and motor skills that might be present in any group. MiM resources are designed so that facilitators can customize them to fit the interests, culture(s) and language(s) of their audiences. Doing a MiM data-collection activity? Collect data about whatever that will intrigue your particular group— in whatever languages everyone speaks. Leading a MiM project with Nutrition Fact labels? Base it on boxed or canned food for next week’s Cinco de Mayo celebration. Running a family event—with everyone from preschoolers to grandparents? MiM has activities for those with limited mobility as well as those with energy to burn. MiM resources show facilitators how to keep the core math but change the context to engage and challenge the audience, whoever they are and wherever they’re from.
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