CARD HOUSE BUILD

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CCSS: 4.NBT.5, 4.MD.2, 5.NBT.5, 6.RP.3, 7.RP.3

Georgia’s K-12 Mathematics Standards: 4.NR.2, 4.MDR.6, 5.NR.2, 6.NR.4, 7.PAR.4

Act 1

Watch the video:

Also: Card House Build – Act 1 from Mike Wiernicki on YouTube.

Suggested Questions:

  • How many cards/decks of cards were used to make the card house?
  • How long did it take to build the card house?

Make an estimate that you know is too low.

Make an estimate that you know is too high.

Make your best estimate.

Act 2

What information do you need to answer your question?  Supply information to students as they ask for it.

How many cards were used to build the card house?

How long did it take to build the card house?

Support pairs/groups of students with least helpful questions as they struggle to answer their math question(s).

Act 3

Students share strategies and solutions, using precise mathematical language and calculations.  Students should discuss various strategies and look for efficiency and flexibility in other students’ thinking.

Possible Questions:

  • How close was your best estimate?
  • What strategy(ies) did you use to solve the problem?
  • What variables did you consider/use in developing your mathematical model?

The reveal:

How many cards were used?

How long did it take to build?