Real-world Math Projects for Gifted Learners, Grades 4-5

Helping bring mathematics and engineering to life, these challenging lessons give teachers an exciting tool for engaging advanced learners through creativity and hands-on products. Units are driven by standards and invite students to become baseball field architects, create flying jellyfish, make a gnome hat parachute, scale skyscrapers, and more! Each project includes step-by-step lesson plans with reproducible templates, time estimates, and a materials list. While centered on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) competencies, true to real-world experiences, these hands-on projects span the curriculum―including writing and public speaking―and while they suit entire classrooms and smaller groups, they can also be easily adapted to individual projects for independent study and home school.

Mark Hess is a board member for Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) as well as President-Elect of the Colorado Association for Gifted and Talented. With over 33 years teaching gifted learners, Mark is currently the gifted programs specialist in a large, urban district in Colorado Springs.