God designed us to play. It is a “deep human desire, and it is a mark of human flourishing… Everyone can have a meaningful experience in mathematical play.”
Francis Su, 2020, p.49, 63
Play
What is happening when we play?
- What are the characteristics of play?
- What causes it to be fun and enjoyable?
- How do we interact with each other?
Characteristics of play
Puzzles
Why do we enjoy:
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Mindcraft
- Leggo
- Rubix cubes
- Sudoku
- Mazes
- Solving algebraic equations?
In the beginning, God delighted in bringing order and structure to chaos.
We too, are made in God’s image: ‘wired’ to manipulate numbers and solve mathematical puzzles. Its enjoyable!
Activities
Use technology for mathematical discovery and play.
- Activity: Basketball curves
- Assignment: Outdoor chess pieces
Tell students why they are playing: the story is important!
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones“
Proverbs 17:22
“I loved studying Math. I needed God to show me why” Read Francis Su’s story