Info and Integration
So first what does a math journal include? Well as I said before it is FULL of crafted foldables for students to use as a supplement to their learning, as a way of learning, or as a resource to refer to when studying, doing homework, or in a future class! Each page has a different resource and usually it is created using a foldable, some sort of craft, or even just colorful notes. This journal can incorporate writing as well, helping students to write their feelings about math and overcome struggles. These journals can be anything you want them to be, so have fun! Make them worth your time and your students!
Now to make these journals "Arts Integrated", is very important! As I said earlier it is important to realize that crafts and paper crafts like these journals include are a form of art. Learning about paper crafts is important to the integration success of this experience!
Some tips for integrating the arts:
-Include information on the form of glue needed to be used. What kind of glue is best for each type of paper? Take it from an avid paper crafter, the type of glue is super important! When gluing heavier things (gems, brads etc) I would use Tacky Glue. With lighter things, and definitely with the notebook paper I would stick with glue sticks to help ensure the paper doesn't get a hole in it! Then of course there is regular old Elmer's glue. This is a staple, but be sure students don't use too much! It is full of liquid and can get everywhere and form holes in paper! The last type of glue (didn't think there would be so many did'ya?) is Modge Podge, I use this a lot with collages, but it also works well if you want a shiny gloss or matte gloss on a foldable! It works the same as regular glue as well, but you can make things pretty with it as well!
-Include lessons on scissor use, and safety. This is especially important for the younger students. Here is a link to 13 ways to teach your child to use scissors! This is a very important part of paper crafting as art so definitely include this in your lesson!! ***Do not forget about your left-handed students! Here is a link on how to teach them about how to use scissors. For right-handed teachers this can be a little confusing, so use this link and the video it contains to help you, help them!***
http://www.lefthandersday.com/tour7.html
-Of course we need to talk about the paper! If you could take a field trip at this point that would be AWESOME! Go to a craft store, or a local Scrapbook store. Let the students explore the isles and begin to see beyond the construction paper they are used to! The art of scrapbooking and crafts goes way beyond just construction paper, and it will be fun for students to see all the options. Maybe even let them pick one piece each out to incorporate into their foldable! They are only about 60cents a piece, so this could be affordable and fun!
These are just three ways to incorporate the art of paper crafting in, but get creative and arts integrate your math foldable!
Ideas, Pictures, and Resources
These are some AWESOME foldables! This blog (link below) has tons of ideas for everything in the classroom, but especially math! My favorite is the pizza fractions!
Here's the Link!
http://www.rundesroom.com/2012/06/math-journal-sundays-fractions.html
http://moretime2teach.blogspot.com/2012/08/tropical-storm-isaac-welcomes-us-back.html
This teaches about the shape, its features, and it is 3D! Love it!
Here's the link hootyshomeroom.blogspot.com
Math journals can be used with any grade level and will be an awesome addition to your classroom!
Happy journaling!
Alexa