Curriculum area(s):
Math

Grade Level:
Elementary -- Lower Grades K-2

Objectives:
1.To learn to represent data via a bar graph.
2. To learn to extrapolate data from a bar graph and talk about that data in your own words.
3. To begin learning comparison math terms and to begin using correct grammar with those terms.

Materials needed:
A large bag of M & MÆs or anything else that can be divided
so that every
child has an assortment of about 20 items that can be sorted by only one
attribute ( color,
size, shape). There are a number of cereals that work well for these
lessons as do colored
tiles.

Time estimated to complete lesson:
20-40 minutes

Procedure:
Give each child a piece of 1/2 inch graph paper, crayons, and about 20 M&MÆs.
I show them how to make their graph lines on the graph paper.
The children then sort the M&MÆs by color, count each color and count the total M&MÆs. I have them arrange the M&MÆs by color from the most to the least and then graph.
them that way.
The first two weeks that is all that we do.
Week three: I have four of them stand in front of the class and we talk about their graphs,
ôYou have three more reds than greens. The color that you have the most of is brown and
the least is blues. You have 2 fewer yellows than reds.ö
Weeks four through seven: They need to write down four comparison sentences about their graphs. I correct their grammar and teach them the difference between the words, ôthen and than.ö
Weeks eight through twelve: They need to write six sentences comparing their graph with the graph of two different friends.
As each child finishes and shows me his/her work I then allow him/her to eat the M&MÆs.

Extension activities:
The M&M? can be arranged into blocks/circles and the children can make fractions.
I also have addition and subtraction lessons using edible items.