Improv 1: Live Mirrors and Scale [Oct. 31, 2011, 5:25 p.m.]
Live mirrors
Each task of the course is a quick math improvisation prompt. It has an activity base, and one variable you can change in it to start improvising. You are welcome to find and change other variables, if you want, as well. Happy math improv!
Suggested improv variable: scale
How does the scale of a game change child’s attitude towards it?
Why scale?
Why do some kids happily play with tiny LEGO pieces or create intricate patterns out of beads? Why are others building rockets out of giant cardboard boxes or drawing mural masterpieces?
Microscopists prefer tiny little objects that require fine motor skills. Gigantists love enormous structures and excel in gross motor skills. This may be an overall preference, or it may depend on the context. For example, a kid may prefer tiny construction sets but huge whiteboards for writing and drawing. Change the scale of your kid’s activities. You may notice the kid suddenly getting smarter, more creative, or happier. We have seen kids gain several years’ worth of skill development in writing, art or math just by scaling up or down.
Live mirrors base
Stand in front of each other and mimic each other's gestures and expressions.This is harder and more fun than it looks, because of movement and complex gestures.
It is a very quick game, just a few seconds. Some kids want to play much longer, though!
Infants - Let your baby lead! Follow by mirroring her gestures and facial expressions. Another version: hold the baby in your lap in front of another person. Mirror that person’s posture by moving baby’s hands and feet.
Toddlers - The toddler may start repeating your gestures and facial expressions. Help with hard positions by moving the child. Use helpful math words: up and down, vertical and horizontal, symmetric.
Kids - Use more complex motions - who doesn’t love twirling in front of a mirror - say, rub your tummy and pat your head. Try playing with four people and two mirror lines.
Adults - Find finger positions or body motions that challenge you. Help kids who get confused by mimicking them in return, or gently position them. Observe which elements are harder and which are easier.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQZNBkdxCMY
Live mirrors improv time!
Change the scale. Play live mirrors outdoors or in a large room, with big huge movements like jumping, laying down, or kicking the air. Play at a table, using just fingers to mirror small, intricate gestures. Try giant or tiny toys, such as an exercise ball or mini stickers. Try finger play songs, like “Eensey Weensey Spider.” With older kids, try drawing or writing (large or small - chalk or notebook!) while mirroring one another.
Send the class a short video or a story with photos about scaling live mirrors up and down.
1. What is your child’s scale? What is your scale?
2.What else do you notice about live mirrors?
3. Which math words did you use as you played?