How Many Guinea Pigs Can Fit on a Plane?: Answers to Your Most Clever Math Questions (Bedtime Math)
#4 in Bedtime Math Series
on Goodreads (113)
What’s inside...
How Many Guinea Pigs Can Fit on a Plane? by Laura Overdeck explores intriguing questions like the number of bees required to make a jar of honey, how many soccer balls would fit inside a hollow Earth, and how many pieces of gum are needed to stick a person to a wall. Through real-life questions and surprising answers, the book demonstrates the power and fun of mathematics.
Discussion points
If you had to solve a math problem using animals, which animals would you choose and why?
What was the most surprising math fact you learned from this book?
How do you think math helps us in everyday life?
Can you think of a funny math question of your own?
How do you feel when you solve a math problem correctly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to come up with their own quirky math questions. Praise their efforts, not just correct answers, to build confidence. Connect the math problems to real-life scenarios to make the discussion more relatable and engaging. Use props or drawings if possible, to visualize the math problems, making them more fun and easier to grasp. Lastly, share your own experiences or challenges with math to make the conversation a two-way, relatable exchange.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The book uses entertaining and whimsical questions to teach children how to apply mathematical concepts to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach real-life issues with analytical thinking, enhancing their ability to figure out practical solutions.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: By challenging children with clever math questions, the book encourages them to think critically and not just accept facts at face value.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children evaluate situations and make informed decisions in their academic pursuits and daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Learning
Explanation: The book presents math in fun and imaginative scenarios, showing that learning can be engaging and enjoyable.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to see learning as a creative process and encourages them to explore educational content in innovative ways.