When we go back to school in the fall, there will no doubt be changes. I’m guessing that one of the changes we encounter will be an emphasis on social distancing. I can’t even wrap my brain around how that’s going to be accomplished. But let’s say that the six foot social distance rule is recommended in classrooms. An adult can visualize six feet, but a child with developing spatial skills will have a tough time. Fortunately, you can combine a math lesson and a social distancing lesson. You could even splash a bit of art in there as well! And gross-motor skills? Sure, why not! Check out the following options to help students visualize six feet.
- Use tape to mark a six foot square on the floor of your classroom. During centertime, allow students (one at a time) to measure
the lines of the square with a ruler. Encourage them to stand in the middle of the square and hold out their arms so they can see how large it is. - Give each student a six foot length of adding machine tape. Have her decorate her tape using crayons or markers (or have her practice writing sight words). Then prompt student pairs to hold the ends of a tape length to see what it looks like to be six feet away from someone.
- Can students jump six feet? They’ll certainly have a good time trying. And it will help them visualize the measurement. Use tape to make two lines on the floor that are six feet apart. During centertime, have students visit the area one at a time to attempt jumping from one line to another. Older students can mark their landing with a beanbag and then measure from the start line to their landing spot.
Our line up at the door would have a set of feet taped every six inches!
Thank you for the suggestions!