1. Read Something
We’re going to take a closer look at the Great Wall of China before we start our challenge:
2. Build Something
Your challenge:
The Great Wall of China is over 13,000 miles long, but today, you will build your own wall using popsicle sticks. You will figure out how many popsicle sticks it takes to build your part of the wall and then build your part step by step.
- How long will your wall be (1 foot, 2 feet, or 5 feet).
- Design your part of the wall using popsicle sticks as the base.
- How high will it be?
- How wide?
- What else will you use to build your wall? (cardboard, paper, straws)
- Do the Math:
- How many sticks do you need for each food of your wall?
- How many sticks do you need total?
- Check your math with your team.
- Count the sticks you will need and make sure you have enough.
- User Elmers or hot glue to glue the sticks side by side to make your wall.
- Label your wall with the total feet it shows.
- Share your wall with the class and tell how you used math to build it!
3. Make Something
We’ll use a recipe with several steps to make something new:
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.NS.A.1: Apply operations with rational numbers in real-world situations.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.7.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases in context.
Lesson Objectives:
- Math Skills: Students will apply addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with rational numbers in a collaborative, hands-on project.
- ELA Integration: Students will follow step-by-step instructions for creating a simple Chinese snack while learning vocabulary related to measurements and ingredients.
- Cultural Awareness: Students will learn about the Great Wall of China and its significance in Chinese history.