Introduce Learners to the Joys of STEM

Welcome to our dedicated section of resources for educators. This is where you will find the information and materials you need to use MathFinder to help your students or campers engage with mathematical concepts in a wide range of environments. You can also use this information for use of all walkSTEM experiences. MathFinder is a special category of walkSTEM experiences.

Learning Kits Organized by Age

We have created two learning kits that can be flexibly used in any learning environment for two different age ranges. These flexible programs equip you with the information and materials you need to create a fun, engaging, and interactive learning adventure.

Each of our kits includes a sequence of activities that you can easily adapt to your specific location and the time you have available. Whether you’re running a short session, an all-day event, or weekly programming, these kits can be customized to fit your schedule perfectly.

Introduction to the “What’s My Question” Approach
Kickstart your program with a fun and intriguing introduction to MathFinder’s unique approach.

View and discuss the short video.

This interactive session will pique the children’s curiosity and set the tone for exciting mathematical exploration.

Engaging Activities
The kits include activities that cater to the age and skill levels of the learners. You can tailor these activities based on your available resources and time. Whether indoors or outdoors, these activities can transform any space into a lively math classroom and field trip.

Prek - Grade 3

Grade 4 and Up

Additional Resources for Educators

The two programs organized by age range described above each incorporate several proprietary MathFinder resources. If you’d like to explore these resources outside the context of the learning kits, here are some brief descriptions and direct links.

Open-access MathFinder and walkSTEM Video Library

Explore our searchable archive of videos reflecting years of work developing programs that use place-based education to inspire youth interest in STEM. Find videos that can be used at one of our partner learning sites in Dallas, at your own location, or even to create your own place-based Math Walk.

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Interactive Video Viewing Guide

This free guide allows educators to convert the video-watching experience into an inquiry exercise and an enjoyable game. Engage your students by having them pose their own questions, make predictions, and collaborate with peers as they watch each video. Feel free to adapt this guide as you wish. We encourage educators to customize our resources to suit your students and context – always!

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Create Your Own Math Walk

A step-by-step guide to creating your own Math Walk. Gather students’ input so you can incorporate their ideas, suggestions, and voices to create an engaging and memorable Math Walk on your own campus.

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Create Your Own walkSTEM Tour

Foster STEM mindsets in your community by creating a walkSTEM tour. Our design frameworks, guides, and student worksheets provide everything you need, and the tours are compatible with after-school learning spaces, universities, museums, zoos, urban environments, corporate offices, and more.

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App-Guided Walking Tours

You can take a Math Walk yourself using your own mobile device. These tours are available for iOS, Android, and web, with integrated GPS mapping, directions, and regular contests.

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Math Reference Material for Educators

Slide decks focusing on the themes of scale, proportion, and quantity; geometry; and math patterns. Prepared by math education experts involved with the MathFinder project, these decks are designed to provide a quick understanding of these important umbrella concepts.

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Goodnight Dallas, walkSTEM Edition

This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces young learners to STEM concepts. Using the Shape Finder and Angle-A-Tron that accompany the book, students can explore mathematical concepts in a scaffolded manner that allows them to confidently gain gradual experience with lines, shapes, and angles.

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Shapefinder

This printable version of the Shapefinder included with the Goodnight Dallas, walkSTEM Edition book helps young learners to identify and discuss a variety of common shapes. Instructions for using the Shapefinder are available in this video.

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Angle-A-Tron

This printable version of the Angle-A-Tron included with the Goodnight Dallas, walkSTEM Edition is a beginners’ protractor that introduces young learners to the concept of angles. Instructions for using the Angle-A-Tron are available in this video.

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Informational Flyer

A sharable flyer you can use to encourage your students, parents, faculty, and others to take advantage of our open-source resources.

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Educator Stories

Listen to the stories of fellow educators to learn how they implemented Math Walks and STEM Walks at their locations and hear about the reactions they have seen from young learners.

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Stay Connected and Get Involved

Become a member of the MathFinder and walkSTEM communities to stay up-to-date and participate in growing the future of STEM education.