Math games anyone?

There were cards, dice, games, smiles and laughter as Grade 12 students from Salmon Arm Secondary (Sullivan) played math games with Grade 1 students from Bastion!

For a number of years now (except for the break during pandemic restrictions) students in Heather Lawless’ Grade 12 Calculus or math classes are challenged to design or find a math game to play with younger students from Bastion Elementary.

The older students have to delve into the probability and math behind the games and submit a written explanation about the game they chose to play and how it works. “We spend some time as a class looking at the curriculum for the particular age group,” explains Lawless. “My kids then come up with some number game ideas and test them out with classmates. Then the real fun happens when the elementary students join us.”

“I am always so proud of my students. They really are great role models for the younger students. They do a great job,” says Lawless.

“Megan Ollinger’s grade one class was the fourth group to come this year. It is such a great experience for everyone.”

Lawless comments the big kids enjoy spending time with the younger students and the elementary kids have fun engaging in some some math games. She adds they are are always in awe of our school that “looks like a mall”.

Ollinger added that her class really enjoyed the opportunity. “They were so engaged and they talked about it all day. Many couldn’t wait to go home and tell their families all about the games. I was really proud that my Grade Ones had built up the stamina to play math games for an hour.”

Superintendent of Schools Donna Kriger reported to trustees that she had the opportunity to visit Sullivan and observe the math games. “It was amazing to watch the high school students mentor young students and I couldn’t tell who was enjoying the games more – the grade 1’s or 12’s. Thank you to our grade 12 student leaders at Sullivan who made that hour so memorable for those young students. I know they will grow up remembering that special day!”