Stairway to the Sky

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In this math activity, learners use cubes to calculate how many blocks it would take to build stairways with different heights. Learners look for patterns and try to make predictions about how many blocks will be needed to build stairs of various heights. This activity guide contains a material list, sample questions to ask, literary connections, extensions, and alignment to local and national standards.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • About 50-60 Cubes (sugar cubes, small 1 cm squared cubes, or other cube-shaped blocks)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Patterns
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Probability
    • Number and Operations
    • Reasoning and Proof
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Problem Solving

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Children's Museum of Houston, 2004

Funding Source:

  • ExxonMobil