“How do you teach math while unschooling?”

“How does the homeschool math in the Saxon text relate to Real Life?”

We use some math texts in Oregon, – no matter my philosophy on learning – the fact remains that we are required testing in Math and English – the higher the grades, the greater chance of no state involvement – the higher the grades – the better placement for college and such – So – We teach Math. Out of Textbooks.

Today however, we took a break to discover how to use what we’ve been learning in play, real life, exploration and discovery.
It began with a post from 
 Journey Into Unschooling’s Penguin Shack.

We started by drawing out a plan, figuring out how large the structure needed to be to house Mr. Chill, and then how many popsicle sticks that would require.

We quickly learned that if we made more than 2 huts for our village, that we would not have enough sticks.  So – off to the store to get some Jumbo Stick and regular sticks – Some supplies for creatures – a couple of Gatorades and 3 roles of Life Savers. (Builders need energy).

We did create some great planning charts – figure out squares, multiply stick counts, and talk about shapes, cubes and formulas. 

Then, Jon asked if he could just create for fun – and I said yep.  He created a really cute sledmobile.

What can you create – and discuss – and have fun with?
How do you bring Math into the everyday area –
without using recipes or measuring cups?