Math for Money: Students Earn Shopping Rewards for Problem Solving

Sixth-graders got the chance to earn money and shop for gifts in a fun classroom activity called “Calandrelli Cash,” as led by and named after Grade 6 teacher Andrea Calandrelli. Besides being fun, the activity allowed students to hone their math skills.

Throughout November and December, math problems were posted daily in Mrs. Calandrelli’s classroom. Students worked independently to solve the problems and if successful, they earned cash. The more problems they solved correctly, the more Calandrelli Cash they earned.

On the last day of school prior to winter break, Mrs. Calandrelli’s classroom and fellow Grade 6 teacher Beth Hunter’s classroom were transformed into pop-up shops. Each pop-up shop featured different items personally made by the sixth-graders including snow globes, bracelets, desserts, candles, and more. Students browsed the merchandise and bought items using their Calandrelli Cash. Upper School students also got in on the action and stopped to browse as they were passing in the halls. Senior Rayne Durant purchased a basketball charm bracelet.

 

“Calandrelli Cash allows students to practice problem solving and math while rewarding and motivating them,” said Mrs. Calandrelli.