The blocks we use are called unit blocks and offer so much to learn in so many areas. There are math ideas for us to consider. For instance, the children found that the square block was the same length as half a unit block. We will soon meet a block called a double and found that it is twice the height of a unit. When children see these relationships, they are able to problem-solve when they can't find the block they need to fill a particular spot. If all of the doubles are gone, you could use two units; if all of the units are gone, two squares might work.
Our first focus is on learning the names of the blocks and working safely in the space, as we build and unbuild, stack and carry the unit blocks.
The first challenge we met was to fill the small board with units, leaving no spaces. We are amazed to see how many different ways we find.
Our second challenge was to build a strong tower using only squares.
The Empire State Building is a tower. D.B.
A tower is a long building... and it goes up. H.H.
Build a big base, then build narrow, and make it taller and taller. A.R.
The children walked around their towers to check for any gaps and straighten the edges to make their tower stronger and more beautiful.
We introduced the "finger test" to check for strength.
Make sure it keeps balance so it won't fall over. H.H.
In many parent conferences the teachers shared a goal to encourage collaborative building in the blocks area. The children will learn new ways of negotiating and discussing their work, sharing ideas and making decisions together. They will learn a lot about what makes a structure beautiful and strong.
