How to Do a Math Trail: Orientation and Trial Run

• Tell students that you will be taking them out of the classroom to do an activity called a "math trail." It is strongly recommended that you also show them the sections of the documentary Good Morning Miss Toliver (included in this kit) that show Kay Toliver and her students on the math trail.
  

• Ask the students for examples of math problems that could be created by observing locations and activities in their environment.
  

• Tell them where the math trail is going to take place. If you have chosen a site with historical or cultural interest, introduce this element of the project. Let the students know how they can obtain additional information.
  

• Tell the students that their assignment will be to find examples of math problems along the route that you have chosen (if possible, you could also offer them the option of creating a route themselves). They will create a book that presents both the trail and the problems they have created. They will be expected to provide solutions for each problem in the book.
  

• Answer any questions.

Trial Run

• Take the class to the math trail location. Show them where the math trail will start.
  

• Walk through the area, and point out a few examples of math problems. Begin by presenting examples yourself. As student interest and understanding develops, ask the students to suggest examples.

Back to "Using the National Math Trail as a Classroom Project"