Taking Place Value Outside

When we are working on place value in math, I always try to find as many different approaches as possible. I prefer to keep the pencil and paper work until the end of the unit, so we focus instead on learning digitally, using hands-on practice, and even take the lesson outside. 

                                         

Out on the playground, students take a handful of pebbles to sort into groups of ten (plus the extra ones). It's a great way to do a quick assessment so I can see which students will need extra attention. 

The next day we go online to visit websites that practice basic place value skills. One example is this website called Base Ten Bongos ; students are required to build the number using base ten blocks. I like this one because all the blocks stay in place when the new challenge appears, so students can add or take away from what they already have, adding another level of thinking.

Next, students get their own "blocks" to build the numbers I called out. I use these thick cardboard base ten blocks because they are easy to work with, easy to store, and easy to replace if some go missing. 

After lots of partner work, students are feel confident to get their pencils out for some written practice! 

What are your favorite activities for place value?