Newer Book Published 2008


Introduction:

Explain to the students that we can find a lot of math in nature. This poem would be the perfect relation when teaching a unit on geometric shapes. Tell the children as we read this poem be thinking of a beehive or honey cone and be ready to share the shape they see.




Study a beehive
And you will see
The mathematical genius of the bee.

The hexagons

you’ll find inside

fit side

by side

by side

by side.

This math
Is passed

mysteriously


from worker bee

To worker bee!


Extension:

Challenge to students to journal about other math found in nature (Ex. Butterfly wings)


Franco, Betsy, and Steve Jenkins. 2008. Bees, snails, & peacock tails: patterns & shapes-- naturally. New York: Margaret K. McElderry Books.