What child isn't intrigued by the idea of inventing? Fun is the first word that comes to mind, but what about physics and engineering? The Futures Channel includes a collection of intriguing videos that integrate math concepts. One example is "Roller Coasters," which provides a virtual encounter with the construction of a roller coaster, revealing how it is designed in such a way to increase fun, but also ensure safety. Kids can then sketch out a prototype for their own roller coaster. Riding a real roller coaster is another option. The future inventor can take notes, or pictures, and apply these observations to their own design.
Creative students are not always interested in math, yet math and art are interconnected. The study of fractals, for instance, is visually engaging and beautiful while also revealing modern math concepts. Kids can relate fractals to outside world by taking a walk outside or going on a field trip and finding fractals in the patterns of nature. Then they can create their own fractals with Photoshop. Bridges is an organization that seeks to bridge art and math. On the Bridges website there are models: galleries of sculptures, geometric shapes, fractals, and digitally composed 3D images that can be observed and emulated. Brief descriptions under each are rich with mathematical terminology that kids can apply to their own art.
Animation combines both art and math as it involves 3D and 2D images, physics, and optical illusions associated with movement. Start your students with animation projects: creating games, images, and graphic design. They will be immersed in math, will learn about physics, and will perform mathematical feats, whether they know it or not.