Did you know?
Through this activity, connections can be made between counting tables and area as well as counting people (one per side) and perimeter. Children will probably notice that the number of tables can be the same but the number of seats changes, and that there are minimums and maximums for each particular number of tables.
What you need
- Square blocks or tiles (or copies of the table)
- Small play figurines (or something else to represent people)
- Copy of recording sheet
What to do
- Look at the chart and choose one situation to start (ex. 5 people to find seats).
- Use the squares to make table arrangements for this number of people.
- Use the play figurines or other objects to represent the family members if you want.
- Use the chart to record the number of tables you will need and the number of empty seats.
- Try another situation or make up your own.
What to ask
- What other arrangements can you make with the same number of tables?
- Which arrangement allows the most people to sit?
- Which arrangement allows the least people to sit?
- Do you see any patterns that can help you predict the amount of seating certain table arrangements will make?