Star Wars Light Saber Math

One of my latest realizations about homeschooling is that being flexible and following my children’s interests instead of my own agenda – with specific, traditional Montessori lessons, for example, is key to our success.

So, with that acceptance, I took a step back, put my ego on the back burner, and observed my boys, which is why I’ve chosen to embrace Star Wars. I hope you enjoy these Montessori-inspired activities with a Star Wars theme. We’re kicking off our learning with Star Wars Math.

Star Wars Math

Materials

Darth Vader Mask Outline
Black Construction Paper or Cardstock
Star Wars Light Sabres
Die
Piece of Felt or Mat
Addition, Subtraction, and Equals signs

Approach

Print out an outline of Darth Vader’s mask from online
Cut out three outlines from black paper & laminate
Introduce the activity to the child with him sitting to your left
Place a piece of felt in front of you with the three Darth Vader masks on the felt
You or the child roll die
Ask the chid to gather the number of light sabers that matches the roll & to place the light sabers onto the first Darth Vader mask
Place the addition or subtraction sign after the first mask explaining that you’re adding or subtracting and what that means
Roll the die again & gather light sabers to match the next addend
Then add (or subtract) light sabers to get the total amount
Have the child physically place the two piles of light sabers together (or take from the left addend) following the equals sign
Then have the child count for the answer