From School Library Journal
Grade 3 Up-As stated in the introduction, the aim of this book "is to give you some unusual math ideas and a wealth of hands-on, do-it-yourself activities" to make them work. Covering a wide range of ability levels, the 34 projects are divided into categories such as symmetry, magical mind reading, solitaire, instant calculations, 3-D math models, gamesmanship, and real-life experiments. Each one lists the materials needed, construction, several challenges, and the solutions (always on a different page). This is not a routine math puzzle book for underachieving students, but it's a wonderful supplement for teachers to use at different levels of study. Some of the projects can be found in other books but the "think exercises" are generally original. Printed instructions are clear and concise, supplemented by sharp, full-color photographs and well-labeled diagrams. Base patterns, designed to be photocopied, are frequently provided. Most of the activities involve paper, straws, rubber bands, tape, and recycled materials within easy reach. While students could use the book independently, a few of the activities recommend the use of a saw or electric drill without stating necessary precautions. A challenging resource.
Nancy A. Gifford, Schenectady County Public Library, NYCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
Book Description
It all adds up to one thing: math projects that will stretch your mind, tickle your funny bone, and provide hours of pleasure. These fresh and fun hands-on activities are designed to stimulate thinking and put math concepts into practice. Flex your hexagon to produce some magic; create a paper model that can transform into fifteen symmetrical patterns -- such as stars and cubes -- and six different colors. Astound friends with your mind-reading abilities: you need colored papers, special cards that you can photocopy, scissors, and glue. Make an ancient Chinese puzzle out of cardboard or plywood and construct different shapes out of the assorted pieces. Also try weighing human hair adding faster than a calculator, and playing a mind-boggling game -- where the object is to force your opponent to take the last marker. Over 30 projects to do!
