Optional Timeline
Teachers have asked about timelines, and a possibility is presented below. This is an optional one for a fairly complex math fair. In many cases, a two-week preparation is sufficient, so the timeline can be fairly short and concentrated.
The following timeline is for a math fair that is integrated into the curriculum where it is related not only to problem-solving but also to other parts of the student's education. Although the timeline itself spans several weeks, the amount of time that the students actually spend in preparing for the fair is quite brief.
The following timeline is for a math fair that is integrated into the curriculum where it is related not only to problem-solving but also to other parts of the student's education. Although the timeline itself spans several weeks, the amount of time that the students actually spend in preparing for the fair is quite brief.
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At the start of the term:
5 weeks prior to the fair: 4 weeks prior: 3 weeks prior: 2 weeks prior: 1 week prior: |
Arrange with the art, language arts, and computer instructors for any cross-curricular activity. Decide on a theme for the math fair if you wish.
Collect puzzles for students. Obtain resources (cardboard, paint, glue etc.) that might be needed. Inform students, print a newsletter for parents and guardians about the math fair. Include information about how projects will be graded for the math fair. Also inform everyone that it is noncompetitive. Determine students groups, distribute puzzles to students, go over the puzzles with the students to make sure they understand them. Students begin solving their puzzles (an activity that should take place in class). Students should have solved their puzzles by now. Students now have to transform the puzzle so that it can be presented to the public. If the math fair has a theme, the problem should be adapted to the theme. Students start preparing their presentations. Dress rehearsal. After this, students repair any problems with their presentation materials. |
If there are other activities associated with the math fair, you may have to adjust your timeline. For example, if you are inviting guest speakers, or if you are inviting the press, you will have to include this in the timeline. Also, if you wish to evaluate your students' performance at the math fair, you may need to include that as well.