Leaf Problem Solving with a FREEBIE

Hi everyone!  I wanted to share some of what we have been doing during math in kindergarten!

 We have been doing a lot with comparing numbers and using math vocabulary - greater than, less than, and equal.  It is kindergarten standard K.CC.6 in Common Core -

"Identify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than, or equal to the number of objects in another group, e.g., by using matching and counting strategies (Include groups with up to ten objects)." 
 

I decided to use a leaf problem solving activity with my students.  I wanted an open-ended problem for them to solve because I like having different answers to problems.  This way my students can see there are many ways of solving one problem. 

    I first started off with a "Notice and Wonder" activity to get them thinking about the problem.  If you want to read more about the "Notice and Wonder" strategy, check it out here.  It's basically a great way to get your students thinking about a problem by sharing what they notice and what they wonder about the problem.  I love using this strategy with my students and you can use it across all subjects.  (Sorry this picture came out a little more blurry than I realized!)

We then went over the problem and talked about how many of each color they would put on their tree.  We discussed if that would work and why or why not.  Then, they got to work!

  
My students did such a great job with this!  Here is some of their finished work:

 I have this as a FREE download for my blog readers!  Just click the image to download.  I hope you and your students enjoy it!

 Some helpful tips about the lesson:*I gave my students 10 leaves, but you could give more or less to students, depending on the needs of your students. *In the document I have also created a problem using less than.  You can decide which problem you want to use with your students.  Have a super rest of the week! 
Oh and I almost forgot to mention...now you can find my blog at www.recipeforteaching.com!!!  So exciting!