Some "Bunny" Knows About Tangrams!

Today we read this book to complement our geometry unit:

Three Pigs, One Wolf, and Seven Magic Shapes, written by Grace Maccarone

 Have you ever read this book with your students? It is a great story that uses the 7 "magic pieces" that make up a square, but change into different objects (like a sailboat) and animals (like a rabbit) in the story.

I have taught this lesson with first, second, and third graders! I love it because it gives students the opportunity manipulate shapes in a hands-on lesson. The students are always amazed by how many different objects and animals can be created with just the seven shapes. (So am I!)

Before the lesson, I had a parent helper cut out all seven shapes and put them into a baggie. I used foam so that it would be more sturdy than just paper. I also numbered the baggies so that each child would be responsible for all 7 shapes after the lesson!!! It never ceases to amaze me how some students have shapes that just "disappear!" :)

As I read, the students follow along and make the animals and objects that appear in the story. I pause and give them a few minutes to create each one.

You really can pick out your visual-spatial learners in this lesson! They can make the animals so quickly! I always try to strategically sit them next to a child who I know will need help.

We then extended the lesson by making the bunny that was in the story. Students traced the foam shapes and cut them out of the white construction paper.

They used construction paper to create the background, used "googly" eyes, and a cotton ball for the cottontail!

Look how cute they turned out!!!

Some "bunny" knows about tangrams!!!

Does some "bunny" want to make this with their students? Click below to download the file:

Some "bunny" Knows About Tangrams

Please let us know how it goes if you teach this lesson in your classroom!

Have a great night!!! :)