Taskbox Time--Math

Presenting academic assignments using a structured work system approach is an effective way to communicate the expectations to students. One strategy is to use taskboxes for a variety of pre-academic and academic math tasks.

A pre-academic math skill may be matching objects to a container with 1:1 correspondence.

Match bouncy balls in ice cube tray with 1:1 correspondence

Match rubber sea animals to muffin tin with 1:1 correspondence

Taskboxes can be use for practicing shape identification or finding which shapes don't belong to a set.

Stick red X on shape that doesn't belong using sticky tack

Unlock lock to remove metal ring by matching shapes on key and lock
(Kate Pennington, Kettering ECEC)

Some taskboxes focus on counting out a set of objects.

Put corresponding number of lion erasers in egg carton

Count and match buttons to template on outside of baggy and then seal inside

Use taskboxes to work on money skills such as making a purchase or counting coins.

Sequence set of 4 quarters

Match corresponding coins from container to make purchase on baggy

Packaging tasks give students an opportunity for repetitive matching and counting practice.

Count and match tiles to counting template and package

Match poker chips to template and package

Merge math and reading skills using a taskbox focused on reading number words. 

Match number work to numeral and slide index card into pocket

Many taskboxes can be made simply with common household and office supplies. The Target dollar bins and Dollar Tree also offer affordable materials for easy taskbox assembly. In the Miami Valley, many teachers volunteer at Crayons for Classrooms or attend the Montgomery County Material Reuse Facility's Teacher Shopping Days.

For more ideas check out some of our favorite structured work system books.