Lesson by Rhian Bruce
Learning Intentions:
- To begin to appreciate the beauty and power of mathematics.
- To become familiar with the Dresden Code and its importance as evidence of Maya numerals.
- To be able to explore the Maya maths system and use sticks, stones and shells to represent numbers.
Step 1: Activity overview for parent, carers and pupils
In this activity there is a ten minute video to introduce you to the topic.
There is also a game to help you understand the number system. (This is online)
The main activity can be completes offline.
Resources
You may want to collect some sticks (of similar sizes), some stones and, if possible, some shells. These can be used to represent numbers. If you do not have these items, you could always draw them as symbols instead.
Step 2: Introduction to the activity and additional information
Have you ever wondered about other mathematical representations? In this activity you will learn about the fascinating maths and calendrical systems of the Maya, in Mexico.
Let us start by learn about the Maya numerals, their maths system and the Dresden Codex; use sticks, stones and shells to represent Maya numbers. Click on the link below.
Click the button to visit this website and spend no more than 15 minutes playing games to help you to learn more about this topic…:
Now have a look at the number systems below. If you had to use one of these systems which one would you choose and why?
Step 3: Tasks to carry out for this activity
Activity 1
Use sticks, stones and shells to create some maths problems and show your answers using the Maya system e.g 45+89 = 27×3= 176-39=
Once you have completed the task you can email anything you create (photos, documents, screenshots etc.) directly to your teacher or directly upload it to any of the available places in Step 6.
Step 4: Look over the success criteria for this activity:
Success criteria #1: I know about the Dresden code.
Success criteria #2: I can represent numbers using stick, shells, stones or symbols.
Success criteria #3: I know that there are different number systems.
Step 5: Extension and follow on activities/challenges (optional)
Activity 2 Learn about some other fascinating number systems from around the world
Step 6: Click on the relevant link below if you have any work to upload to your online areas