Monday Made It and a Math Freebie!

Did I make it for Tara's Made It Monday? I'd like to say my delay for posting this week’s Monday Made It is clearly because I was waiting for this: 

But in reality, I was really laminating and cutting all of this:

and this:

But I did manage to get Miss Nelson’s Braggin’ About Behavior Beads ready to go. I love my caddy I found at Hobby Lobby for $1.99! I also got the chain that was originally $7.99 with my 40% off coupon. Score!  I also picked up a small bag for each bead string so the students will get them on the first day. Can you say I’m super excited about these? I had some kiddos with major behavior issues last year so I think this could really help me out this year. Too bad I didn’t have them last year!

I also created Cube in a Tube!  

All you need is some duck tape and a paper towel roll.  Take it to your classroom with 5 or 10 snapcubes and you’re set!

This activity is primarily K-2 based and adapted from Minilessons for Math Practices.  This algebra activity allows students to gain experiences with identifying, describing, and extending patterns. Although it uses snapcubes, you’re exposing students to the same algebraic thinking they’ll need as they move on in their mathematical careers.

Simply put in a cube train of 5 or 10 cubes. They should have a pattern with them. This could be an AB pattern, AAB, ABC, etc.., just don’t make it too complicated at first. Show the students the tube, and have them make predictions what color they think the first cube will be. They can share aloud or even record their ideas on this recording sheet I made. After they share/record, show them, and repeat the next steps.  As an extension, have students try and make their own trains and have their peers make their predictions. 

Cubes in a Tube - Trains of 5

Cubes in a Tube - Trains of 10

I keep thinking of more and more ways to use these tubes… do you have any ideas on how they could be used? 

Thanks for stopping by!