By carefully observing we can truly appreciate the inherent beauty of mathematics. Through active engagement with mathematical concepts, we can uncover the intricacies and delicate nuances it possesses. Recently, mathematics teachers in our Primary School took the initiative to guide students through a diverse range of mathematical and financial activities, igniting a captivating journey of learning mathematics and promoting financial literacy among the young minds.
Little financiers emerge from the financial literacy classes
Deep research facilitates the cultivation of financial literacy
During the Financial Month, each grade seamlessly integrated the curriculum with the activity objectives. Lessons were conducted using financial business activities as real-life scenarios, providing practical relevance to the theoretical knowledge learned. Open Class displays and exchange seminars were organized to showcase the application of textbook concepts in financial activities, granting students a deeper understanding of the subject matter. By applying their acquired knowledge in practical situations, students were able to develop essential skills and competencies, fostering a holistic approach to learning and promoting the application of knowledge in real-world contexts.
Grade 2 teachers crafted lessons centered around the concept of “Grams and kilograms” within the framework of financial sharing trade activities. They organized trading activities that involved weighing items, providing students with a tangible and practical understanding of volume. Through these real-life experiences, students developed a heightened sense of measurement and honed their ability to comprehend and work with grams and kilograms effectively.
Grade 4 teachers utilized a lesson on “The Meaning of Decimal Numbers” to engage students in a discussion on the topic of “interest rates”. This approach allowed students to grasp the practical significance of decimals in everyday life, particularly in the context of interest rate schemes. They explored various deposit strategies, fostering a deeper understanding of numbers and enabling the application of acquired knowledge. Through this integrated approach, students developed a strong numerical sense and gained valuable insights into real-world financial concepts.
Grade 5 teachers initiated project-based learning by delving into the realm of mathematical mysteries encapsulated within packages. They posed the question, “How can we design a package that entices customers while optimizing cost?” This inquiry led students to explore “The Change of Surface Area” as they developed a deeper understanding of spatial concepts. Through this immersive approach, students were able to learn and apply their knowledge simultaneously, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning experience.
With the financial quotient coins earned through their own study efforts, students spent them wisely and made great deals!
At the Maths supermarket, a plethora of products awaits the students’ selection. They had the freedom to choose and purchase their preferred items. However, the crucial aspects for determining quantity and optimal consumption required students to engage in thoughtful contemplation and to learn how to apply mathematical programming in a real shopping situation. Through this hands-on opportunity, students not only engaged in the act of shopping but also developed their mathematical reasoning skills, understanding the significance of making thoughtful decisions regarding consumption and utilizing mathematical principles effectively.
During the Flea Market activity, each class engaged in market transactions within small groups. Within these groups, students were able to collaborate and discuss strategies on “how to attract more consumers” while preparing for the division of labour. Tasks such as naming the shop, decorating the stall, creating promotional posters, developing advertising slogans, designing commodity sales activities, and maintaining transaction records, including income and expenditure, were undertaken. Through these endeavours, students gained firsthand experience of the contrasting roles of merchants and consumers in real transaction projects. This immersive activity allowed students to develop a deeper understanding of the dynamics of commerce and fostered their entrepreneurial skills, teamwork, and creativity.
Through their participation in a collective auction, the “Buy in the Maths Market” activity, the students contributed their hard-earned financial quotient coins as class funds, taking collective honours for the class!
Super-duper online and offline interactive Closing Ceremony
The Closing Ceremony for the month-long financial event took place on June 2, commencing with a captivating performance entitled, “Fingertips Fly, the Most Dazzling Rubik’s Cube.” Twenty-one students emerged from a pool of 1,000 auditions, persevering through 100 preliminary rounds and 50 semi-finals, before undergoing a month-long training. The culmination of their efforts was showcased in the grand display of 162 Rubik’s cubes forming the phrase ‘WE LOVE SUIS QINGPU MATH,’ symbolizing their profound affection for mathematics.
Throughout the history of mathematics, ancient puzzle games have always held a prominent place, serving as the primary avenue for intellectual engagement. The intense competition of “fingertip race, the strongest brain” across all grade levels allowed students to learn through enjoyable and entertaining experiences. For instance, Grade 1 students engaged in the ultimate challenge of “fingertip accumulation, the highest Hanno,” where they experienced the puzzle fun of the Tower of Hanoi. Grade 2 students showcased their “fingertip arrangement, the most ingenious assembly” skills as they strove to solve mysterious puzzles with speed and precision.
The highlight of the Closing Ceremony was the auction of the “Afternoon Tea in the Ancient Scholars House,” which elevated the event’s popularity to new heights. During this auction, children enthusiastically participated, assuming different role identities, engaging in calculations, and eagerly placing bids. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the bidding process unfolded, culminating in the final determination of the winning bid and the announcement of the bidding results. Ultimately, the class successfully secured the qualification for the highly coveted afternoon tea experience in the ancient house. This activity not only served as a puzzle competition but also provided students with the opportunity to embrace new identities and immerse themselves in unique experiences.
The financial activities not only addressed practical problems but also enabled students to gain a deeper understanding of the value of money and learn the importance of rational consumption and responsible financial management. Through hands-on participation, students established a meaningful connection between mathematics and real-life applications, igniting their enthusiasm for learning the subject. They realized that mathematics permeates every aspect of life. With the successful conclusion of this financial activity, we eagerly anticipate upcoming financial activities and the valuable learning experiences they will bring. Let us look forward to the next financial event together!