Setting Up Your Family Math Circle
A family math circle is a regular time when everyone comes together to explore mathematics. Here's how to get started:
- Choose a consistent time (e.g., Sunday afternoons)
- Find a comfortable space with room to move and write
- Gather basic materials (paper, pencils, household items)
- Start with 30-45 minute sessions
Choosing Activities
Select activities that are:
- Have a "low floor and high ceiling" - accessible to beginners but rich enough for deep exploration
- Can be approached in multiple ways
- Encourage discussion and collaboration
- Connect to interesting mathematical ideas
Facilitating the Discussion
As the facilitator, your role is to:
- Present the problem clearly and without hints
- Ask questions that promote thinking
- Encourage everyone to share their ideas
- Help build on each other's thinking
- Celebrate different approaches and solutions
Sample Math Circle Activities
Here are some activities to get you started:
- Pattern exploration: Create and extend patterns using household items
- Number puzzles: Problems that can be solved in multiple ways
- Geometry challenges: Building and exploring shapes
- Logic problems: Puzzles that require careful thinking
Making It Work for Your Family
Remember that your Math Circle should be enjoyable for everyone:
- Start with shorter sessions and build up
- Be flexible with the structure
- Follow your family's interests
- Celebrate the process of mathematical thinking
Resources for Activities
Find engaging problems and activities from:
- Math for Love - Games and rich tasks
- Open Middle - Challenging problems with multiple solutions
- Graham Fletcher - 3-Act Tasks and visual problems