Grade Four Mathematics
Students will develop an understanding of four general units: Numbers, Patterns and Relations, Shape and Space; Measurement and 3-D/2-D objects, Statistics and Probability.
Children’s early experiences shape what they imagine to be possible. Study after study has shown the value of exposing children with positive role models. Representation, including in the hours spent consuming media within the classroom, shape what they imagine to be possible for people who look like them, live where they live, or come from where they came from. Simply put, kids determine what they can be based on the examples around them. Therefore, we highly recommend you take 2-5 minutes everyday in your math class to introduce mathematicians of colour. We've made this easy for you by creating a presentation that you can use with a slide a day to showcase a new mathematician of diverse background. You could do this on a daily, weekly, bi-weekly or during a certain month. You could also make your own presentation and encourage this representation.
K-6 Mathematicians of Colour by Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation
Mathematicians of colour to introduce to your class related to the Alberta curriculum
NUMBERS
Mathematician: Elbert Frank Cox
First ever African-American man to earn a PhD in Math.
NUMBERS
Mathematician: Elbert Frank Cox
First ever African-American man to earn a PhD in Math.
- Curriculum connection:
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Word problems with references to Elbert and his contributions to math
- Hook for math task involving division with remainders
- Shared reading about historical contributions to math - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired; additional accommodations may be required
Chinese mathematics | Mathematician: Sun Tzu
Website describing the development of the Chinese Remainder Theorem by Sun Tzu in the 3rd century CE. The Theorem used remainder number while doing division and long division. This theorem was used to track planetary movement for Chinese astronomers, and today is used in internet cryptography.
Website describing the development of the Chinese Remainder Theorem by Sun Tzu in the 3rd century CE. The Theorem used remainder number while doing division and long division. This theorem was used to track planetary movement for Chinese astronomers, and today is used in internet cryptography.
- Curriculum connection:
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems
- 8a. Demonstrate an understanding of fractions less than or equal to one by using concrete/ pictorial and symbolic representations to: name and record fractions for the parts of a whole or a set/ compare and order fractions/ model and explain that for different wholes/ two identical fractions may not represent the same quantity/ provide examples of where fractions are used
- 4a. Apply the properties of 0 and 1 for multiplication and the property of 1 for division - Suggested use:
- Hook for math task involving division with remainders
- Shared reading about historical contributions to math - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired; additional accommodations may be required
Math Prodigy Terence Tao, UCLA | Mathematician: Terence Tao
Chinese mathematician who developed the theory of sequencing prime numbers.
Chinese mathematician who developed the theory of sequencing prime numbers.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2a. Compare and order numbers to 10 000
- 1b. Identify and describe patterns found in tables and charts - Suggested use:
- Hook for math task involving division with remainders
- Shared reading about historical contributions to math - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Murder of Ancient Alexandria's Greatest Scholar | Mathematician: Hypatia
Biography of the Egyptian mathematician and philosopher Hypatia. Hypatia contributed significantly to the development of long division.
Biography of the Egyptian mathematician and philosopher Hypatia. Hypatia contributed significantly to the development of long division.
- Curriculum connection:
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems
- 8a. Demonstrate an understanding of fractions less than or equal to one by using concrete/ pictorial and symbolic representations to: name and record fractions for the parts of a whole or a set/ compare and order fractions/ model and explain that for different wholes/ two identical fractions may not represent the same quantity/ provide examples of where fractions are used
- 4a. Apply the properties of 0 and 1 for multiplication and the property of 1 for division - Suggested use:
- Hook for math task involving division
- Use video to begin discussion about the historical and culturally diverse contributions made to development of math - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Meet the Black Female NASA Genius Who Helped Send the First American Into Space | Mathematician: Katherine Johnson
Short video describing the life of Katherine Johnson, the female mathematician who helped with the first mission to the moon. This video does a good job at explaining Jim Crow laws and other race-based structures that she faced throughout her life.
Short video describing the life of Katherine Johnson, the female mathematician who helped with the first mission to the moon. This video does a good job at explaining Jim Crow laws and other race-based structures that she faced throughout her life.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems
- 8a. Demonstrate an understanding of fractions less than or equal to one by using concrete/ pictorial and symbolic representations to: name and record fractions for the parts of a whole or a set/ compare and order fractions/ model and explain that for different wholes/ two identical fractions may not represent the same quantity/ provide examples of where fractions are used - Suggested use:
- Watch video and discuss Johnson's contributions to math
- Word problems with details about Johnson and the mission to the moon - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Mathematician: Evelyn Boyd Granville
Video biography of Evelyn Boyd Granville, the second African-American woman to receive a doctoral degree in mathematics. Boyd made significant contributions to the field of space travel, working with IBM in areas of computer programming. Granville received her PhD from Yale University.
Video biography of Evelyn Boyd Granville, the second African-American woman to receive a doctoral degree in mathematics. Boyd made significant contributions to the field of space travel, working with IBM in areas of computer programming. Granville received her PhD from Yale University.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems
- 8a. Demonstrate an understanding of fractions less than or equal to one by using concrete/ pictorial and symbolic representations to: name and record fractions for the parts of a whole or a set/ compare and order fractions/ model and explain that for different wholes/ two identical fractions may not represent the same quantity/ provide examples of where fractions are used - Suggested use:
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly
- Hook for math task involving equations
- Use video to discuss resilience and approaches to problem solving
- Hook for a written reflection on using problem solving techniques across the subjects
- Word problems with references to Granville and her contributions to space travel - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Black Mathematicians
Rap video celebrating African-American pioneers in Mathematics. Mathematicians mentioned include:
Benjamin Banneker, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, Elbert Cox, Martha Haynes, Dudley Woodard, David Blackwell, Annie Easley, Evelyn Granville, Emery Brown, Marjorie Brown, William Claytor, Charles Reason.
Rap video celebrating African-American pioneers in Mathematics. Mathematicians mentioned include:
Benjamin Banneker, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, Elbert Cox, Martha Haynes, Dudley Woodard, David Blackwell, Annie Easley, Evelyn Granville, Emery Brown, Marjorie Brown, William Claytor, Charles Reason.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems
- 8a. Demonstrate an understanding of fractions less than or equal to one by using concrete/ pictorial and symbolic representations to: name and record fractions for the parts of a whole or a set/ compare and order fractions/ model and explain that for different wholes/ two identical fractions may not represent the same quantity/ provide examples of where fractions are used - Suggested use:
- Students choose a mathematician from the video to research about (cross-curricular with Social Studies/Science)
- Word problems with references to mathematicians from the video - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
A brief history of the numerical systems
Alessandra King explains the origins of the numbers 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and 0 along with the relevance of using decimals and a 60 base system.
Alessandra King explains the origins of the numbers 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and 0 along with the relevance of using decimals and a 60 base system.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1a. Represent and describe whole numbers to 10 000 pictorially and symbolically
- 9a. Represent and describe decimals (tenths and hundredths) concretely, pictorially and symbolically - Suggested use:
- Hook for decimals
- Highlight the global contributions to math - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Hidden Stories: Dorothy Vaughan | Mathematician: Dorothy Vaughan
A short, biographical video detailing the life of mathematician Dorothy Vaughan. She worked for NASA, and was considered a “human computer,” and even helped to put the first man on the moon.
A short, biographical video detailing the life of mathematician Dorothy Vaughan. She worked for NASA, and was considered a “human computer,” and even helped to put the first man on the moon.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts - Suggested use:
- Hook for a math task that involves patterns and variables
- Showcase the diversity that exists in the math world
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The exceptional life of Benjamin Banneker | Mathematician: Benjamin Banneker
Born in 1731 to formerly enslaved parents on a farm in Baltimore, Benjamin Banneker was obsessed with math and science. And his appetite for knowledge only grew as he taught himself astronomy, mathematics, engineering, and the study of the natural world. Rose-Margaret Ekeng-Itua details the numerous accomplishments of Benjamin Banneker.
Born in 1731 to formerly enslaved parents on a farm in Baltimore, Benjamin Banneker was obsessed with math and science. And his appetite for knowledge only grew as he taught himself astronomy, mathematics, engineering, and the study of the natural world. Rose-Margaret Ekeng-Itua details the numerous accomplishments of Benjamin Banneker.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts - Suggested use:
- Use an example of resilience in the math world, noting how he overcame many barriers (including racism) to pursue his passions
- Showcase the diversity that exists in the math world
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Top of the Class: The Story of Marjorie Lee Browne | Mathematician: Marjorie Lee Browne
Marjorie Lee Browne was one of the first Black women to earn a PhD in mathematics.
Marjorie Lee Browne was one of the first Black women to earn a PhD in mathematics.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts - Suggested use:
- Introduction to discussion about how stereotypes in the math world can impact students (willingness to take risks, try something that they are interested in, gender stereotypes) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Mathematician: Brahmagupta
Brahmagupta, the greatest of ancient Indian mathematicians, first showed how to use zero as a number and made many other important discoveries in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
Brahmagupta, the greatest of ancient Indian mathematicians, first showed how to use zero as a number and made many other important discoveries in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
- Curriculum connection:
- 4a. Apply the properties of 0 and 1 for multiplication and the property of 1 for division - Suggested use:
- Introduce and discuss the history of zero and its importance to number and number representation - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
History of Mathematics
An animated video on the development of numbers throughout history.
An animated video on the development of numbers throughout history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1a. Represent and describe whole numbers to 10 000 pictorially and symbolically - Suggested use:
- Introduce the history of numbers and make connections to all contributions - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Were Women The First Mathematicians In Ancient Africa?
Brief history about some African mathematics, especially the role that women had in its development.
Brief history about some African mathematics, especially the role that women had in its development.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1a. Represent and describe whole numbers to 10 000 pictorially and symbolically
- 2a. Compare and order numbers to 10 000 - Suggested use:
- Introduction to the importance of the diverse historical contributions to the world of mathematics
- Hook for research project about famous female mathematicians of colour (cross-curricular connection to writing) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Interview with Sibahle Zwane, Maths Genius
A video about the 10 year-old math genius. If anyone knows that age is just a number it’s Sibahle, a 10 year old human calculator (aka maths genius). He can work out ANY multiplication sum within seconds!
A video about the 10 year-old math genius. If anyone knows that age is just a number it’s Sibahle, a 10 year old human calculator (aka maths genius). He can work out ANY multiplication sum within seconds!
- Curriculum connection:
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts - Suggested use:
- Introduction to the importance of the diverse contributions to the world of mathematics
- Hook to begin multiplication - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning not available on video, accommodations needed
Can These Human Calculators Really Solve Any Problem?
A video about difficult questions being throw at young mathematicians.
A video about difficult questions being throw at young mathematicians.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts - Suggested use:
- Use as a resource for problem solving, pull apart the steps to solve a problem connected to operations, have students share their preferred strategy
- Highlight that everyone (no gender) can excel at math - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning not available on video, accommodations needed
Kid Mathematician Amazes Judges on Sri Lanka's Got Talent
A video about math wizard Nimna Hiranya on Got Talent Sri Lanka as she wows judges with her math skills.
A video about math wizard Nimna Hiranya on Got Talent Sri Lanka as she wows judges with her math skills.
- Curriculum connection:
- Students will gain understanding and appreciation of the contributions of mathematics as a science, philosophy and art - Suggested use:
- Introduction to discussion about how stereotypes in the math world can impact students (willingness to take risks, try something that they are interested in, gender stereotypes) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning not available on video, accommodations needed
PATTERNS AND RELATIONSHIPS
The hidden messages in multiplication
A TED Talk by Uma Adwani, who left her small hometown, and was given the opportunity to teach elementary mathematics, which she disliked at first. Through her lesson-planning, she became fascinated with the patterns seen in simple multiplication tables.
The hidden messages in multiplication
A TED Talk by Uma Adwani, who left her small hometown, and was given the opportunity to teach elementary mathematics, which she disliked at first. Through her lesson-planning, she became fascinated with the patterns seen in simple multiplication tables.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1b. Identify and describe patterns found in tables and charts
- 3b. Represent/ describe and extend patterns and relationships using charts and tables to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Hook for a math task that involves patterns and variables
- Showcase the diversity that exists in the math world
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The 11-Year-Old Math Marvel
A video about the young girl, Aarushi. At 8, she ranked second among her peers in Singapore at the Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad. At 11, she's solving puzzles taught at university, and playing chess blindfolded. But Aarushi is finding out that with such gifts comes the pressure of expectations.
A video about the young girl, Aarushi. At 8, she ranked second among her peers in Singapore at the Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad. At 11, she's solving puzzles taught at university, and playing chess blindfolded. But Aarushi is finding out that with such gifts comes the pressure of expectations.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1c. Express a given problem as an equation in which a symbol is used to represent an unknown number - Suggested use:
- Use as a resource for problem solving, pull apart the steps to solve a problem connected to operations, have students share their preferred strategy
- Highlight that everyone (no gender) can excel at math - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
SHAPE AND SPACE: 2D SHAPES and 3D OBJECTS
Women and Minorities in Mathematics | Mathematician: Kate Okikiolu
Website that explains the contribution of a young African-American female, Kate Okikiolu, and her award-winning method to estimate the size of a drum using sounds the music of the drum. The website also contains a string of activities for teachers to use combining some musical and mathematical principles.
Struggle to Success | Mathematician: Maryam Mirzakhani
Biography of the Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani who contributed to the field of geometry. Mirzakhani was the first woman to ever win a Field Medal for mathematics in 2014. She grew up in Iran, and attended Harvard University in 2004.
Women and Minorities in Mathematics | Mathematician: Kate Okikiolu
Website that explains the contribution of a young African-American female, Kate Okikiolu, and her award-winning method to estimate the size of a drum using sounds the music of the drum. The website also contains a string of activities for teachers to use combining some musical and mathematical principles.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2f. Demonstrate an understanding of line symmetry by: identifying symmetrical 2-D shapes/ creating symmetrical 2-D shapes/ drawing one or more lines of symmetry in a 2-D shape
- 3d. Demonstrate an understanding of area of regular and irregular 2-D shapes - Suggested use:
- Introduce Kate Okikiolu
- This can be used as an exploration to see how perimeter, area, and shape of a drum affect the sound - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
Struggle to Success | Mathematician: Maryam Mirzakhani
Biography of the Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani who contributed to the field of geometry. Mirzakhani was the first woman to ever win a Field Medal for mathematics in 2014. She grew up in Iran, and attended Harvard University in 2004.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2f. Demonstrate an understanding of line symmetry by: identifying symmetrical 2-D shapes/ creating symmetrical 2-D shapes/ drawing one or more lines of symmetry in a 2-D shape
- 3d. Demonstrate an understanding of area of regular and irregular 2-D shapes - Suggested use:
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly
- Hook for math/art task using geometric shapes such as creating a unique print or pattern
- Discuss resilience and approaches to problem solving
- Hook for a written reflection on using problem solving techniques - Accessibility:
- Manual transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Against the Odds: The Story of Raye Montague | Mathematician: Raye Montague
Growing up in segregated Little Rock, Arkansas, Raye Montague faced the hurdles of being African American, female, and having a segregated education while pursuing her dreams of becoming a Naval engineer. Through hard work, perseverance, and refusing to take "no" for an answer, Montague became a Naval engineer, and ended up revolutionizing the way ships and submarines are designed. She ended her career as the first female Program Director of Ships for the Navy.
Growing up in segregated Little Rock, Arkansas, Raye Montague faced the hurdles of being African American, female, and having a segregated education while pursuing her dreams of becoming a Naval engineer. Through hard work, perseverance, and refusing to take "no" for an answer, Montague became a Naval engineer, and ended up revolutionizing the way ships and submarines are designed. She ended her career as the first female Program Director of Ships for the Navy.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3d. Demonstrate an understanding of area of regular and irregular 2-D shapes - Suggested use:
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly
- Hook for math/art task using geometric shapes to make an object, such as a boat
- Discuss resilience and approaches to problem solving
- Hook for a written reflection on using problem solving techniques - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
SHAPE AND SPACE: MEASUREMENT
The Genius Indian Mathematician | Mathematician: Aryabhatta
Ancient Indian mathematician who made significant mathematical contributions to the field of astronomy. This is a short video explaining the development of math in ancient India, and what this mathematician did to contribute to this.
The Genius Indian Mathematician | Mathematician: Aryabhatta
Ancient Indian mathematician who made significant mathematical contributions to the field of astronomy. This is a short video explaining the development of math in ancient India, and what this mathematician did to contribute to this.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1d.Read and record time using digital and analog clocks including 24-hour clocks
- 2d. Read and record calendar dates in a variety of formats - Suggested use:
- Discuss the multicultural contributions to mathematics - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
SHAPE AND SPACE: TRANSFORMATIONS
Black Excellist: Gladys West | Mathematician: Gladys West
Gladys Mae West is an African-American mathematician best known for her contributions to the mathematics underpinning the Global Positioning System (GPS).
Black Excellist: Gladys West | Mathematician: Gladys West
Gladys Mae West is an African-American mathematician best known for her contributions to the mathematics underpinning the Global Positioning System (GPS).
- Curriculum connection:
- Describe and analyze position and motion of objects and shapes - Suggested use:
- Introduce a notable mathematician weekly - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Denise Carter's Smarty Bunch
Short, fun song on how to remember reflection, translation, rotation with a flip, a slide and a turn!
Short, fun song on how to remember reflection, translation, rotation with a flip, a slide and a turn!
- Curriculum connection:
- 2f. Demonstrate an understanding of line symmetry by: identifying symmetrical 2-D shapes/ creating symmetrical 2-D shapes/ drawing one or more lines of symmetry in a 2-D shape - Suggested use:
- Hook to introduce transformations - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
MISCELLANEOUS
The Most Beautiful Equation in Math Professor: Po-Shen Loh
Professor of mathematical sciences Po-Shen Loh explains why Euler’s Equation is the most beautiful equation in math.
The Most Beautiful Equation in Math Professor: Po-Shen Loh
Professor of mathematical sciences Po-Shen Loh explains why Euler’s Equation is the most beautiful equation in math.
- Curriculum connection:
- Students will gain understanding and appreciation of the contributions of mathematics as a science, philosophy and art - Suggested use:
- Introduction to the history of number and make connections to all contributions - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Aboriginal Perspective on Math: Grade Four Math Workshop
Website that includes Aboriginal math games and activities for the Grade 4 Alberta curriculum. The website is set up to have activities for every math unit included in the Alberta Grade 4 math curriculum.
Website that includes Aboriginal math games and activities for the Grade 4 Alberta curriculum. The website is set up to have activities for every math unit included in the Alberta Grade 4 math curriculum.
- Curriculum connection:
- Covers various outcomes across all four units - Suggested use:
- Games are listed for all 4 stems in the curriculum
- Use these games to connect your concepts and to have your students learn from each other - Accessibility:
- Additional accommodations required for all nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired students
NUMBERS
Learn 2 to 9 Times Multiplication Tricks
This video is a compilation of videos covering the tricks for the 2 to 9 times tables.
Learn 2 to 9 Times Multiplication Tricks
This video is a compilation of videos covering the tricks for the 2 to 9 times tables.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts - Suggested use:
- Hook for multiplication, use to show representation in mathematics - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Mathematics of the Americas: Activity Booklet
PDF of various mathematics activities that incorporate lessons about mathematics developed in various South American civilizations (Aztec and Inca). The activities span across all grades, with specific pages relating to 4-6 math curriculum.
PDF of various mathematics activities that incorporate lessons about mathematics developed in various South American civilizations (Aztec and Inca). The activities span across all grades, with specific pages relating to 4-6 math curriculum.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1a. Say the number sequence 0 to 1000 by: 5s/ 10s or 100s/ using any starting point/ 3s/ using starting points that are multiples of 3/ 4s/ using starting points that are multiples of 4/ 25s/ using starting points that are multiples of 25
- 2a. Compare and order numbers to 10 000 - Suggested use:
- Math of the Maya: Place Value and Number Operations (p.11)
- Math of the Inca: Data Analysis, Numbers and Number Sense (p. 17)
- Math of the Aztec: Algebra (p. 23)
- Math of the Navajo: Geometry and Measurement (p. 29) - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
The Magic of Vedic Math
Ted-ED video on the principles of Vedic Math. The video outlines methods used for the multiplication of large numbers using Vedic mathematics, a branch of math that first started in India and was derived from ancient Hindu texts.
Ted-ED video on the principles of Vedic Math. The video outlines methods used for the multiplication of large numbers using Vedic mathematics, a branch of math that first started in India and was derived from ancient Hindu texts.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Students can do the math together to see how to multiply in different methods
- This can also be used for students who need more of a challenge in math - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Vedic Mathematics
PDF of traditional Hindu mathematics tricks that were outlined in the ancient Hindu vedas. Part of the PDF shows tricks for multiplication and division.
PDF of traditional Hindu mathematics tricks that were outlined in the ancient Hindu vedas. Part of the PDF shows tricks for multiplication and division.
- Curriculum connection:
- - 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems
- 7a. Demonstrate an understanding of division (1-digit divisor and up to 2-digit dividend) to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Read the full document to get a full understanding of vedic mathematics
- This can be used to show another method of multiplying, and it can also be used for students who need more of a challenge in math - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
Pi
Rap song explaining Pi and what it's used for.
Rap song explaining Pi and what it's used for.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9a. Represent and describe decimals (tenths and hundredths), concretely, pictorially and symbolically - Suggested use:
- Hook for decimal task while also showcasing the diverse representation in the mathematic world - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
History & Evolution of Abacus
A video which introduces the abacus and its history.
A video which introduces the abacus and its history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1a. Represent and describe whole numbers to 10 000 pictorially and symbolically - Suggested use:
- Introduction or example of a variety of ways to represent numbers - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
Invention Of Zero - The Dr. Binocs Show
Animated history about the concept and history of zero.
Animated history about the concept and history of zero.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1a. Represent and describe whole numbers to 10 000 pictorially and symbolically
- 4a. Apply the properties of 0 and 1 for multiplication and the property of 1 for division - Suggested use:
- Hook for task focused on number representation highlighting the importance of zero
- Use video to discuss historical and culturally diverse contributions to mathematics - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
Understand the Meaning of Multiplication
Brief lesson about multiplication, with an included animation.
Brief lesson about multiplication, with an included animation.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Use as an introduction to multiplication while showcasing representation in mathematics - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
Who Invented Multiplication?
Brief video about the history of multiplication and who "invented" it.
Brief video about the history of multiplication and who "invented" it.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5a. Describe and apply mental mathematics strategies to determine basic multiplication facts to 9 × 9 and related division facts
- 6a. Demonstrate an understanding of multiplication (2- or 3-digit by 1-digit) to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Use an introduction to multiplication
- Prompt discussion about how many inventions were credited to white inventors over inventors of colour - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
Decimal System of India
History and explanation of the Indian numeric system, including exponents/decimals.
History and explanation of the Indian numeric system, including exponents/decimals.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9a. Represent and describe decimals (tenths and hundredths) concretely, pictorially and symbolically - Suggested use:
- Use video to make connection between Indian Numeric system and current number system
- Students can compare decimal representation in both systems - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
History of Mathematics: Who Invented Decimals?
Short history of decimals and who might have invented them.
Short history of decimals and who might have invented them.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9a. Represent and describe decimals (tenths and hundredths) concretely, pictorially and symbolically - Suggested use:
- Introduction to decimals
- Prompt discussion about how many inventions were credited to white inventors over inventors of colour - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Auto-captioned - dependent on reading ability. Additional accommodations may be required for visually impaired students as descriptive captioning is not available
PATTERNS AND RELATIONSHIPS
Indigenous Math Games
Rules and instructions of various First Nations math games. These games pan across various different units, allowing teachers to pick and choose which games fit in their classrooms. Each games also contains a list of math links to each game, making it easier for teachers to link the games to the curriculum.
Indigenous Math Games
Rules and instructions of various First Nations math games. These games pan across various different units, allowing teachers to pick and choose which games fit in their classrooms. Each games also contains a list of math links to each game, making it easier for teachers to link the games to the curriculum.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1b. Identify and describe patterns found in tables and charts
- 3b. Represent/ describe and extend patterns and relationships using charts and tables to solve problems - Suggested use:
- Games can be used to teach certain concepts
- These games can also be used as a way to build students mathematical skills and when they are finished their work
- 'Math Games Friday' where you introduce a game based on a concept you are teaching in class - Accessibility:
- Additional accommodations required for all nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired students
SHAPE AND SPACE: 2D SHAPES, 3D OBJECTS
Islamic Art and Geometric Design: Activities for Learning
Document compiled by the MET that discusses the geometry of Islamic design. The document gives example of artifacts from the MET that exhibit Islamic design. It also includes many activities for students that help them recreate the art while analyzing the geometry of the design.
Islamic Art and Geometric Design: Activities for Learning
Document compiled by the MET that discusses the geometry of Islamic design. The document gives example of artifacts from the MET that exhibit Islamic design. It also includes many activities for students that help them recreate the art while analyzing the geometry of the design.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2f. Demonstrate an understanding of line symmetry by: identifying symmetrical 2-D shapes/ creating symmetrical 2-D shapes/ drawing one or more lines of symmetry in a 2-D shape
- 3d. Demonstrate an understanding of area of regular and irregular 2-D shapes - Suggested use:
- Students can look at different art pieces and try to find the symmetry embedded in each piece
- Students can use the activities within the document to further explore how shapes fit to make a larger, beautiful pattern - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
SHAPE AND SPACE: MEASUREMENT
Area of a Triangle
Short rap song about the area of a triangle.
Area of a Triangle
Short rap song about the area of a triangle.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1e. Describe and construct right rectangular and right triangular prisms - Suggested use:
- Hook for area task while also showcasing the diverse representation in the mathematic world - Accessibility:
- No captions available, accommodations needed
Circles
Rap song explaining circles and how to measure them using Pi.
Rap song explaining circles and how to measure them using Pi.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3d. Demonstrate an understanding of area of regular and irregular 2-D shapes - Suggested use:
- Hook for measurement task while also showcasing the diverse representation in the mathematic world - Accessibility:
- No captions available, accommodations needed
STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY
First Nations Games of Chance
List of traditional First Nations games of chance including instructions to these games. These games deal with lessons on statistics and probability for grades 4-6.
First Nations Games of Chance
List of traditional First Nations games of chance including instructions to these games. These games deal with lessons on statistics and probability for grades 4-6.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1g. Demonstrate an understanding of many-to-one correspondence - Suggested use:
- Students can play these games to gain their understanding of probability - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired; additional accommodations may be required
STEM by the Numbers
In this lesson, students use data to analyze the participation of white, Black, Asian and Hispanic men and women in STEM careers as compared with their participation in the general workforce. They then discuss the possible reasons identity groups are unequally represented in STEM careers.
In this lesson, students use data to analyze the participation of white, Black, Asian and Hispanic men and women in STEM careers as compared with their participation in the general workforce. They then discuss the possible reasons identity groups are unequally represented in STEM careers.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2g. Construct and interpret pictographs and bar graphs involving many-to-one correspondence to draw conclusions - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Why Math Matters for Kids
A video explaining the importance of math and how it can be used in various scenarios.
A video explaining the importance of math and how it can be used in various scenarios.
- Suggested use:
- Use as a hook at the beginning of the year or a specific unit to relate curriculum to real-life scenarios - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Teaching Mathematics for Social Justice: Conversations with Educators
Book that discusses the challenges and strengths of incorporating anti-racism and social justice into mathematics education. The book describes ways to do this and the nuances and sensitivities needs to do this properly in a classroom setting. Note: This book is $36.95.
Book that discusses the challenges and strengths of incorporating anti-racism and social justice into mathematics education. The book describes ways to do this and the nuances and sensitivities needs to do this properly in a classroom setting. Note: This book is $36.95.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform your teaching practice to relate math and social justice issues
NUMBERS
The History of the Abacus
This document shares a brief history of the abacus and its development in ancient China. The abacus can be used for counting, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc. Based on the curriculum, abacus math is appropriate for K-3 and 4-6 math.
The History of the Abacus
This document shares a brief history of the abacus and its development in ancient China. The abacus can be used for counting, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc. Based on the curriculum, abacus math is appropriate for K-3 and 4-6 math.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2a. Compare and order numbers to 10 000
- 3a. Demonstrate an understanding of addition of numbers with answers to 10 000 and their corresponding subtractions by using personal strategies/ problem solving context - Suggested use:
- Use to inform teaching on the abacus and different number systems
PATTERNS AND RELATIONSHIPS
Common Core and Islamic Art
Document that lays out a lesson plan about the mathematics involved in Islamic design. The document makes a good connection to math. Originally, the document is linked to US math curriculum, but does intersect with lessons on geometry and pattern design in the Alberta curriculum.
Common Core and Islamic Art
Document that lays out a lesson plan about the mathematics involved in Islamic design. The document makes a good connection to math. Originally, the document is linked to US math curriculum, but does intersect with lessons on geometry and pattern design in the Alberta curriculum.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1b. Identify and describe patterns found in tables and charts
- 2b. Translate among different representations of a pattern such as a table or a chart or concrete materials - Suggested use:
- Math to art curricular connection; use as a resource to have students incorporate Islamic design into a design project, such as creating a tile design
SHAPE AND SPACE: 2D SHAPES AND 3D OBJECTS
The complex geometry of Islamic design
Video explaining the geometric principles behind the Islamic designs seen around the world.
The complex geometry of Islamic design
Video explaining the geometric principles behind the Islamic designs seen around the world.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3d. Demonstrate an understanding of area of regular and irregular 2-D shapes
- 2f. Demonstrate an understanding of line symmetry by: identifying symmetrical 2-D shapes/ creating symmetrical 2-D shapes/ drawing one or more lines of symmetry in a 2-D shape - Suggested use:
- Use to identify how each pattern can be translated, reflected and rotated to create different patterns - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
