Exploring Mathematical Relationships in Second Grade, Wings and Arms

In our bird studies, we learned about the various wingspans of different species. As we compared the measurements, we found that there is usually a range for each species; not all birds are exactly the same size. We marked the median wingspan of each species on a long strip of paper.  The information found used several units of measure, some were stated in inches or feet, others in centimeters so we used a tape measure marked with both metric and English units   Look for this display in the hall near the bird posters.

In math, we have begun a study of height and arm span of second graders, using links to measure each other.  We talked about the rules of measuring, and why consistency is needed to get most accurate measurements possible.

The students worked in groups of three, establishing that each person would have an essential job. One student would be measured, while another student would hold the chain to the ground, and the last group member would hold the chain up and count the links. The chains were constructed in groups of ten, with each group being a different color. The groups were connected together, and this allowed the students to count faster (skip counting by 10's) during their measurements. While measuring, there were many exclamations of surprise as discovered that their height and arm span were relatively similar and that for some they were exactly the same.

 

Once the measurements were complete,  the data was transferred to data tables and then graphs.  The students created a class graph for arm span and one for height.  This was used to talk about the range of measurements in the class.  We talked about differences, and why these differences might occur (age, family traits, etc). Each student will also create an individual graph for their arm span and height which will help them to find the difference between the two.  Students quickly made the connection between our arm spans and a bird's wingspan.  We noted that although our two measurements are very close, a bird's wingspan can be more than twice its height.