Geometry Unit (3rd & 4th) Lesson 2

On our second day we started by working on an Islamic Art Project which I bought on Amazon. The kids each chose one of the geometric boxes. They had to color them with markers, then pop them out and tape the pieces together - base, sides, lid. While the kids were coloring, I gave them a basic introduction to Geometry. What the word means: Geo - metry, the measurement of the earth. Then we talked about where Geometry is being used in real life: architects, engineers, wood work, interior designers, scientists, computer design, medical imaging... and I wore a traditional Abaya with geometric embroidery to show that even clothes designers use geometry. Then we talked about the founder of Geometry - Euclid, who was born in Egypt and studied in Greece with Plato and Aristotle, and his 13 volume book about points, lines, 2D shapes, and 3D shapes. In the end, we discussed how Islam influenced the field of Geometry. Muslim scientists were inspired by Euclid's book, and due to their inability to decorate using statues, they turned Geometry into a form of art to decorate their mosques, madrasas, and palaces. I showed them how they used a compass and ruler to draw a series of circles and lines inside a square, and then used colored ink to highlight certain lines to make a design.  

Geometry Unit (3rd & 4th grade) Lesson 1

In our first day, we had a short class where we introduced ourselves and just had some free play with geometry manipulatives. I brought playdough and a set of 3D shapes that can be opened and filled. While the kids made shapes, we had some interesting discussions.

About Muhsinun Homeschool Co-op

We are a group of eight homeschooling mothers from the South Bay who have decided to come together as a group and help one another teach our children - each one teaching the subjects that she is strong in and passionate about. The main mission of our co-op is to create a new generation of entrepreneurial leaders who are doers of good - Muhsinun. 

The goal of our co-op is to develop and implement a project-based curriculum infused with Islamic values and Qur’anic inspiration for Preschool through 4th grade. Through the use of projects, children’s natural creativity and curiosity will lead to meaningful learning. Basing the projects on Qur’anic themes will constantly reinforce and remind the children of their special connection with their Creator. We also plan to incorporate leadership and business skills, character training, creativity, and Qur’anic tafseer, in sha' Allah.

We have divided the children into three groups:
Group 1: Preschool (Learning the foundations)

Group 2: KG & 1st & 2nd grade (Ready to start basic Reading & Writing)

Group 3: 3rd & 4th grade (Ready to begin Formal reading & writing)