today i introduced the concept of tangrams to my students in relation to geometry. we followed step-by-step directions to cut all seven tans out of a pre-cut square. then when they had finished cutting all the bits, i asked them to put them back together in a square. they had such a time trying to work that out....anything from "this won't work" to "it's not possible". the joy of watching them work it out. i am reminded them that just a few moments ago that they took a square and cut it up, so it was truly possible. it's so rewarding to watch them struggle and have tension in their thinking. it is true learning and thinking which brings me pure joy as a teacher. good times at school today! love these kiddos!
