I like to make math as real as possible. My 4-5th graders are studying geometry and most recently area and perimeter. Here is a fun and real activity that is a tradition in my class that my new students look forward to participating in.
Ms. Terra Cotta Tile Company
Basically I pretend that I am “Ms. Terra Cotta” and I own a tile design company. My students become my designers and they each have “clients.” Each client’s portfolio includes a tile project that they need designed, such as a patio floor, shower surround, kitchen back splash, etc. My students create a design, choose tile colors, create a bid, and then present the design to their clients.
My students learn about:
- calculating area
- scale and proportion
- adding and subtracting money
- basic percents to calculate labor costs
- letter writing and persuasion
- time management
Day 2 – Choosing the final design and request tiles from the “warehouse”
Day 4 – Present the bid to the client
This day depends on our schedule. If possible I arrange to have “clients” (neighbors) come in and listen to the bids. If we are on a tight schedule, my students write cover letters to explain the design and bid.
Thanks for reading and let’s math math magic!
– Evil Math Wizard
PS – I did finally create this project and it’s now available on TPT, it includes 24 different complete client portfolios and complete directions.
