Math Passports: Equations that Travel

Peck seventh graders are experiencing math in a new way as the subject takes on a whole new interactive spin in Caroline Sugg’s classroom.

With math passports in hand, student mathematicians travel in small groups around the world (their classroom), visiting equations posted on the walls and working together to solve the problems at hand. However, these equations don’t stand alone– rather, they are accompanied by fun facts about a different country, and photos that coincide with each place.

Once students believe they have the answer solved, groups show their work neatly on their passports for a stamp of approval—but on one condition. Students are not only required to have correct math answers, but they also have to recite what they learned about the coinciding country. If correct, only then will students have their passports stamped and receive granted access to the next country!

Traveling mathematicians visit 11 different countries throughout the class period, solving equations, gaining knowledge on foreign places, and even seeing photos of Sugg in these places—sparking further curiosity and conversation as students get to know their new teacher.

“Math activities like this are way more exciting than typical math assignments. I like having the opportunity to get up and walk around the room while combining math with other topics like geography and culture,” said seventh-grader Jake Naughton.