Lobster Problems

Fifth Grade Math is about transition, about moving from problem solving with an elementary mind to problem solving as a pre-teen. By building Lobster Aquariums and filling them with problems inside of capsules (aka, lobster eggs), then mixing those capsules with “prize” capsules, kids from every skill level were able to have “fun” with math for a few days. But over time, they will slowly learn, I hope, that finding answers to difficult problems has to become its own reward.

For this project, one group of 5th Graders designed the lobster aquariums and wrote the problems. The other 5th Graders had to claw/crack the lobster eggs, solve the problems, and find the prizes. I wasn’t sure if the project would work out smoothly, but the kids were all in. Worked out just fine.