Maths Workshop Activity : Listen in cards

In yesterday's Maths workshop we looked into how to get children thinking mathematically and were introduced to an activity involving 'listen in cards'. With this activity, each student is given a card that identifies their number as well as a question that leads on to the next number in the sequence. The cards are prepared in such a way that every student must read their number and ask their question in order to complete the sequence. For example, in a group of 6 students:

Student 1: I am 2. Who is 3 more than me?
Student 2: I am 5. Who is 4 more than me?
Student 3: I am 9. Who is 1 less than me?
Student 4: I am 8. Who is half of me?
Student 5: I am 4. Who is 2 more than me?
Student 6: I am 6. Who is 4 less than me?

The mental calculation required by students as they follow the sequence is a great example of 'thinking mathematically'. As such, the activity may be effectivley used at the beginning of a Maths session as a lead in to a more focused topic. The activity can be adjusted to suit a wide range of learning levels and can incorporate different dimensions of mathematical calculations (eg. percentages and fractions). When facilitating an activity like this I think teachers must be aware that certain students may experience 'maths anxiety' when put on the spot. Thus, an encouraging enviornment must be set and support provided when needed.