Printable Lesson Plan on Exploring Properties of Math

Lesson Title:”Exploring Properties of Math”

Lesson Objective: Students will be able to understand and apply the commutative, associative, and distributive properties of math.

Materials:

  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Student worksheets with problems related to commutative, associative, and distributive properties.
  • Manipulatives (such as base-10 blocks, number lines, and pattern blocks)

    • Introduction (10 minutes):

  • Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever heard the terms “commutative,” “associative,” and “distributive.”
  • Allow students to share their prior knowledge and misconceptions.
  • Write an example on the board, such as “3 + 4” and “4 + 3” and ask students if they are the same.
  • Introduce the concept of the commutative property and explain that it means that the order of the numbers being added or multiplied does not affect the outcome (3 + 4 = 4 + 3).

    • Direct Instruction (20 minutes):

  • Introduce the concept of the associative property. Write an example on the board such as “(2 + 3) + 4 = 2 + (3 + 4)” and explain that it means that the way we group the numbers being added or multiplied does not affect the outcome.
  • Use manipulatives such as base-10 blocks or pattern blocks to demonstrate the associative property.
  • Introduce the concept of the distributive property. Write an example on the board such as “5(2 + 3) = 5(2) + 5(3)” and explain that it means that when we multiply a single number by a sum or difference of two numbers, we can multiply each term separately and then add the products.

    • Guided Practice (20 minutes):

  • Provide students with worksheets that include a variety of problems related to commutative, associative, and distributive properties.
  • Have students work in pairs or small groups to complete the worksheets.
  • Walk around the room and assist students as needed, providing guidance and feedback on their work.

    • Independent Practice (15 minutes):

  • Provide students with a set of individual problems that they can work on independently.
  • Allow students to check their work against the answer key and provide feedback on their understanding of the material.

    • Closure (5 minutes):

  • Review the key concepts of the lesson, such as commutative, associative, and distributive properties of math with the class.
  • Address any remaining questions or misconceptions.
  • Assign homework if applicable.

    • Assessment:

  • Observe student work during independent practice
  • Collect and review student worksheets
  • Administer a quiz or assessment at a later date to check for understanding and retention of the material.

    • Note: The above timings is just a suggestion. Depending on the class size, students’ prior knowledge and pacing, the timings may vary. Also, the above plan is just a starting point, you can customize it as per your class needs.