Blog Post 3

Ashley Maddox
The Grapes of Math

Part 1: In the story the Grapes of Math, author Greg Tang teaches readers how to use symmetry and grouping to count, rather than counting individual pieces or objects. Through each example, there is a reason the reader can't efficiently count the number of objects whether it be because the ants are moving to fast, the pizza is hot and ready to go, or because the eggs are about to hatch. Near the end of the story, the reader has learned that when there is a large amount of objects to count, it's better to find symmetry and multiply small groups. Finally at the end, there are answers and diagrams of how to group every picture into symmetric groups.

Part 2: Symmetry is the mathematical concept in the book. Grapes of Math explains symmetry with grouping and lines of symmetry. The most clear example of symmetry through grouping is the scallop example. Rather than counting every scallop, the answer key maps boxes around clearly 3 distinguished groups, so the reader counts 11 scallops in one group, and multiplies 11 by 3, as all three sections are symmetrical. Also the book addresses finding symmetry through lines of symmetry. For example to count bugs in the jungle, the answer key shows that the most efficient way is to draw six lines of symmetry.

Part 3. I believe that literature is an effective way to teach math skills because it gives examples beyond numbers. While someone may not be able to see where an unfamiliar shape is symmetrical, it may be much easier to understand the concept on a pizza, or group of animals. Also following a storyline can help people stay engaged and not get frustrated by number or shapes.