The next time your students ask the question, "Why do we need to learn this?" you can pull out this list of math activities which connects math to the real world. The activities also connect math to some popular literature (i.e. How Much is Million?). Children will have so much fun with these activities that they won't realize they're doing math.

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I have taught for 36 years at the 3rd, 5th, and 6th grade levels. Fifth grade is my first love. I teach all major subject areas. In addition to my regular classroom duties, I have taught in a Basic Skills summer school program for many years as well as taught workshops to co-workers in whole language and technology. My other duties at school include being "Teacher in Charge" and Student Council advisor.
