Saturday SAVY, Day 3 – Spatial Smarts with Ms. Slick (1st/2nd)
Hello SAVY Families,
Yesterday marked the exciting conclusion of our SAVY Spatial Smarts adventure! We began the day by greeting one another, reviewing our learning from the previous sessions, and setting the stage for a day full of hands-on exploration and big math ideas. Students were eager to dive back into spatial reasoning and build on their understanding of how two-dimensional and three-dimensional worlds connect.
Our first major concept of the day was nets—2D representations of 3D objects. Students examined different pentomino shapes and predicted whether they would fold into open boxes. After testing their predictions, they were able to visualize how flat shapes can transform into solid forms. This activity laid the groundwork for our next topic: projections. Using flashlights and everyday objects, students explored how shadows are formed and how 3D objects can be represented in 2D through top, side, and front views. Ask your child how many projections each object has—they’ll likely remember the answer is three!
Next, we explored slices. Students made predictions about what slices of a hard-boiled egg and an apple would look like, and whether all slices would be the same. Through a demonstration, they discovered how slicing direction affects the resulting 2D shape. Then, using dental floss and Play-Doh cylinders, students experimented with horizontal, vertical, and diagonal slices—an activity that’s easy to replicate at home for continued learning and fun!
To wrap up our learning, students began their final projects: designing a neighborhood map using spatial reasoning skills. Each project included five components: a top-view map with labeled polygons and non-polygons, a building with at least one line of symmetry, a net for one building, a mat plan built with cubes, and three projections of a building. By the end of the day, our class had created 14 unique, mathematically sound neighborhoods and even considered how their neighborhoods might evolve over time. They proudly presented their work to classmates and adult guests, showcasing their creativity and deep understanding of spatial concepts!
I am so proud of the growth and curiosity these students showed over our three days together. They tackled complex ideas with enthusiasm and left with a new book to continue their exploration of dimensions. I know you’ll be excited to hear about what spatial reasoning concepts students engage in as they work on some of the projects in the book! As students continue their inquiry into spatial reasoning, I encourage you to engage them in the following questions:
- What is a line of symmetry? How many lines of symmetry does a square have? Or a circle?
- What is a mat plan? What is a net?
- What is a domino? What is a pentomino? What is a polygon?
- What does it mean to be spatially aware? How did this SAVY course build your spatial awareness?
- How did creating a map allow you to develop your spatial awareness?
Your child’s excitement for spatial reasoning is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where their inquiry leads next!
Best,
Kate Slick