Demonstrate basic construction skills by building a free standing structure, using predetermined materials. Compute cost of structure by using multiplication skills or calculator. Identify problems, successes, revisions, and purpose of lesson by group discussion and answering questions on worksheet. Divide students into groups of 5-6 depending on class size. Each group will need a cleared floor area, and assigned materials.
Teacher explains objective and models materials without actually building a structure.
Allow 3-4 minutes for groups to brainstorm on how to begin. During building time, math person keeps a tally of material costs. Allow students 5 minutes to discuss questions. Recorder transcribes student responses to worksheet. Spokesperson for each group discusses structure and worksheet questions to whole group.