Grade
K

Math in Our World: Wooden Blocks

Today we decided to build a block tower. Before building, we wanted to see how many blocks we had. We lined them up in rows to make it easier to count them.

8 rows of blocks. Each row has 10 blocks. The blocks in the top 5 rows are smaller. They are blues and greens. The blocks in the bottom 3 rows are bigger. They are reds, oranges, purples, and pinks.
  1. What do you notice? What do you wonder?
  2. Use pictures, numbers, or math words to show or tell what you know about the blocks.
  3. What math questions can you ask about the picture? Answer all the questions you can!
  • How could you count these blocks? How many do you think there are?
  • Sometimes it helps to look at smaller groups when counting. Look at the number of blocks in each row or column. Remember:
    • A column goes up and down.
    • A row goes across.
Think of a grid of 3 boxes directly on top of 3 more boxes, all the same size. A column is a top box and the bottom box directly below. A row is the left-to-right line of boxes. For example, the bottom 3 boxes make a row.
  • How can knowing the amount in each row help you count all the blocks?
  • Show your work to someone else, and explain your thinking. Did they understand?
  • Ask whether they have any other questions you can answer!

What could you build with this many blocks? Draw a picture or build something with toys in your home.

Printable Version

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Reference for Educators

Sample problems and solutions