#tvdsbmath

Math Happens in Kindergarten: Importance of Block Play

Our School Board’s initiative currently is Math.  I have been interested in looking at my thoughts on math, how I teach math, engage my students in math activities and behaviours and how I create a math environment inviting to all.

I was particularly interested in this video and the concept of gender differences in block play.  

Very often in my classroom boys are found in the block centre, building, designing and collaborating; creating complex structures and buildings.  Much of their day is spent in this centre.  The girls are not as often found participating in the same activity.  

If we consider time spent in the block centre engaged in construction and inquiry as practicing math….think of all the TIME these boys are practicing math behaviours!!!!

Hmmm, I wonder does this come into play when we look at the gender difference in math skills with girls often lagging behind their male counterparts (even into the highschool years)?  

I was encouraged to hear that supporting girls to be challenged in their thinking and not just stopping their play does have benefits to girls’ math behaviours at the block centre.