Polly's Pen Pal (MathStart 3)
#17 of 19 in MathStart 1 Series
What’s inside...
The MathStart series consists of 63 books divided into three levels, teaching math concepts through engaging stories and visual models aligned with state and national standards. 'Polly's Pen Pal' is a book from this series that uses the story of Polly and her long-distance friend, Ally, to introduce metric measurements to children. The book includes fun activities and illustrations to enhance understanding and application of math in real-life scenarios, making it an ideal resource for children in grades 2-4, parents, and educators. Reviews highlight the series' ability to make math relatable and enjoyable for kids, and note its effectiveness in teaching metrics through concrete examples and visual aids.
Discussion points
What did Polly learn about different places from her pen pal? How do you think that helps her understand the world?
Why do you think measuring things accurately is important? Can you think of a situation where it would be crucial?
How did Polly and her pen pal use measurements and numbers to share their experiences? Can you think of other ways numbers help us communicate?
What would you write about if you had a pen pal from another country? What would you want to learn from them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their daily activities with Polly’s and her pen pal's experiences, fostering an understanding and appreciation for different cultures.
Discuss the importance of numbers and measurements in daily life, and explore measuring various items around your home together.
Invite your child to imagine having a pen pal. Ask them what they would like to learn from or share with a friend from another country, fueling their curiosity and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Communication
Explanation: Polly and her pen pal, Ally, exchange letters that help them learn about each other's lives and cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can practice writing letters or emails to friends and family, enhancing their communication skills and understanding of diverse perspectives.
Example Lesson: Understanding Measurements
Explanation: The book introduces children to different units of measurement through the context of Polly and Ally exchanging information about their heights and the distance between their homes.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in practical activities like measuring objects around the house or distances during trips, helping them grasp the concept of length, height, and distance in a tangible way.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness and Appreciation
Explanation: Through the exchange between Polly and Ally, readers learn about different cultural practices and geographical settings, enhancing global awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can explore books, foods, and traditions from different cultures at home or school, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for global diversity.
Example Lesson: Value of Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Polly's keen interest in learning more about Ally's world drives the narrative, showcasing the joy of discovering new information.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to ask questions and seek answers about the world around them, whether through books, internet research, or conversations with adults.
Example Lesson: Enhancing Math Skills
Explanation: The book cleverly integrates math concepts like measurement and comparison into the story, making learning math fun and relevant.
Real-World Application: Parents can incorporate simple math comparisons and measurements into everyday activities, such as cooking or shopping, to make math a more engaging and practical subject for children.