Mentor Text: Sir Cumference & All the King's Tens

Happy Mother's Day to all of the mothers out there, and to all who help and nurture children (I think that every teacher has mothering/fathering instincts and roles throughout their careers) so cheers to all of you! I was able to spend the weekend back home catching up with family and friends so it was nice to get away.

Tonight, I'm linking up with some great blogging buddies from Collaboration Cuties, for their mentor text link up!

 

Sir Cumference is a great math picture book series, that makes my play-on-words and pun loving self extremely happy. In this particular book Sir Cumference & Lady Di of Ameter, are wanting to through a surprise party for King Arthur. They invite all of the kingdom, but figuring out how many meals and seats are needed poses a big problem. Throughout the book, many strategies are tried. Can this pair figure out a way to get the party going without the King finding out? Can all of the people really be counted? 

Much like "Spaghetti and Meatballs for All" by Marilyn Burns, I have had students problem solve along with the characters in the book. What would you do? Seeing how the character suggested ____ do you think this will work? Among other questions of the sort. Students are encouraged to write out or draw ideas as well.

The book is a cute story and a chance for problem solving while reviewing/working on place value! Be sure to link up if there is a math book that you enjoy using in your classroom!