In mathematics, spatial reasoning involves the ability to see objects in 2 and 3 dimensions and to be able to rotate objects in your mind, with or without physically moving an object in space, or to fill in a space with different objects, or draw an image. Studies show that children with good spatial reasoning at an early age are more likely to find math enjoyable and will master concepts with greater ease. We use spatial reasoning when we are reading a map. Some of us have to physically turn the map to orient ourselves, while others can easily figure out in which direction they must travel to get from point A to point B. Spatial reasoning also comes into play when we look in a mirror. We have to be able to flip the image if we want to brush our teeth or hair correctly. Drivers use spatial reasoning all the time..."Will my car fit into that parking space?"; "Is there enough distance between cars for me to merge safely?" and so on. In order to develop spatial reasoning and strengthen our ability to visualize mathematically, we have to practice. This is a skill that is developed over time and repeated practice solidifies the connections in our brains. Once this is a solidly acquired skill, our brains do not need as much energy to access it. This ability becomes part of who we are, but really it is simply that our brains have such a strong connection to the idea that we really do not need to think about it too hard. The great news is that our brains can develop the capacity to think in space at any time. It just takes lots of practice with certain activities. Here are some activities that promote spatial reasoning: 1. Quick Draw. This is an idea from Grayson Wheatley, professor at the University of North Carolina. The idea is to look at a geometric image for 3 seconds and then "draw what you saw". You repeat this 2 times,until you finally copy the original image. Once the image has been drawn 3 times, you discuss what you see in the image. This is a great way to promote specific mathematics vocabulary to discuss lines, shapes, intersections, angles, etc. (Follow the Quick Draw link to Wheatly's explanation of how it all works.) 2. Quick Build. This is the same as a quick draw, but instead of drawing, use pattern blocks to copy the model. Once the model has been successfully reproduced, build the same "shape" using different blocks. 3. Build with Tangrams. Tangrams are 7 geometric pieces that form a square when put together in a certain way. They have been used for centuries to tell stories, as the tans can be moved around to make different figures. Grandfather Tang's Story by Ann Tompert is a great introduction to using tangrams to tell a story. 4. Draw tessellations. Tessellations are repeated shapes that have been flipped and rotated to fill in a space. M.C. Esher, famous artist, used tessellations to create his artwork. This is an example of one of Esher's tessellation paintings. To learn more about his artwork, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M._C._Escher
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