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MathBase5 comprises six programs concerned with shape, space and
measurement. All six programs are related and represent a sequential
development.
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The first program concerns identifying matching shapes, the shapes
can be simple or complex, little in number or many, of the same
orientation or have been reflected or rotated, shown as pure plain
shapes or constructed from squares. The aim of the program is to
directly stimulate the pupil's visual perception. The program is
highly differentiated and allows for sufficient repetition to help
consolidate the experience. This program is ideally used for pupils
in Reception or Year 1 but can be used by older
pupils who may benefit from improved shape recognition. Each shape
can also be expanded on to a 1cm grid. |
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The second program also aims at exercising and strengthening visual
perception. Each shape on the left can be modified by moving a
single square so that it matches a shape on the right. Again these
shapes can be expanded as 1cm grid patterns. This program is best
used at the earliest possible opportunity - its aim is to develop
non-verbal reasoning at a deeper level. Pupils should be
encouraged to play with programs 1 and 2 to help boost their visual
intelligence. The effect of 'play' like this, though not immediately
apparent, may be to contribute to longer term
improved mathematical development. |
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Program 3 takes the shapes of the previous two programs and
practises finding the areas and perimeters by counting. |
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Program 4 concentrates on the restriction of the above shapes to
rectangles. Areas and
perimeters can be found by counting but also by 'method', for
example, an area might be represented by 2x3 or a perimeter by 2x2 +
2x3. |
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Program 5 introduces the half square. Pupils can first practise
identifying and counting the whole squares in shapes, then
identifying and counting the halve squares in shapes, then practise
finding the total area of shapes. Similarly with perimeter,
pupils can first identify and count the 1cm lengths on the
perimeter, then identify and count the diagonal lengths (taken to be
1.4cm), and then find the total perimeter of the shape. |
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Program 6 introduces the right-angled triangle formed by cutting a
rectangle in two. Pupils can practise finding the area and perimeter
of these triangles. |
