Mathematics is more than just numbers, it can be beautiful. Students in Michelle Tarpley’s 4th grade class at Huddleston Elementary tapped into their creativity to design “math art.”

Students built mathematical models to demonstrate different values of circles based on the size/material of the circle. They were also exposed to different artists who use circles in their art for added inspiration for their own masterpieces.

“My underlying goal was for students to see math as something more than just numbers on a page and for my students who ‘hate math’ to find enjoyment in creating something mathematical while increasing their understanding of our place value system,” said Tarpley.

Her students really enjoyed the activity as a change of pace.

“I think, particularly this year where there are still so many things that are ‘different’ in how our students interact with one another, that art is a great means of expression for students.”