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Children learn to 'read math' at center-sponsored event
Taking the stance that learning math is just as important as learning to read, Passantino, a former elementary educator and current consultant, has found a way to combine the two. After noticing a growing aversion to mathematics in the United States, Passantino decided to develop a program in 2004 that would use children’s books as a springboard into hands-on math activities. In an article detailing the program in a recent edition of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Passantino said, “Everyone loves to read children’s books. By reading a book and doing activities, you cross that line between reading and math in a painless way.” In that same article, Sharon Sherman, director of the College’s Center for Mathematics, Science, Technology and Engineering, said, “The connections she provides between literacy and mathematics are solid. Claire understands the mathematical development of a child and has selected books that are appropriate for particular ages.” The children who participated in the College’s “Let’s Read Math” night were divided into three groups and rotated through three separate activities based on books read by staff members. “Everyone loves to read children’s books. By reading a book and doing activities, you cross that line between reading and math in a painless way.” Grandfather Tang’s Story, read by Amanda Lewis (urban teaching fellow/Academic Grants and Sponsored Research), taught the children about building tangram puzzles; The Greedy Triangle, read by Mary Switzer (project specialist/elementary education), led children into a raisin and toothpick construction project; and Amelia Bedelia, read by Michelle Ordini (data collection steward/elementary education) introduced children to simple combinations and charting methods by dressing characters from the book. The College’s Center for Mathematics, Science, Technology and Engineering plans to collaborate with Passantino in order to introduce the program to various elementary schools throughout the state. To learn more about the program and activities, visit www.letsreadmath.com |
On March 21, faculty, staff, and their children enjoyed a night of learning at Dr. Claire Passantino’s “Let’s Read Math” program, sponsored by the Center for Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Engineering. More than 80 filled Brower Student Center room 202 for an evening of linking literacy and numbers. 