Intermediate Family Math Newsletter - September 2026

Activities for September

Data Tracking: Observations in Nature

Choose one feature to observe over several days. For example, the number of birds seen, the length of a shadow at the same time each day, temperature, or the amount of rainfall. What question will you investigate? How will you collect and represent your data? What does your data mean? Can you explain the observations you are making? 

Try using Desmos Graphing Calculator to graph your data: 

For example, if you observed 4 birds on Day 1, record (1, 4). If you observed 7 birds on Day 2, record (2, 7). 

Then: 

  • Plot each ordered pair on the graph
  • Look for a pattern or trend in your points
  • Describe what you notice. Are the numbers increasing, decreasing, staying about the same, or changing in another way?

Nature Math Challenge

Bee pattern

A male bee has one parent: a mother. 

A female bee has two parents: a mother and a father.

Start with one male bee. How far back can you build his family tree?

Show your thinking with a drawing, diagram, table, or another representation.

As you work, consider:

  • What do you notice?
  • What patterns are you seeing?
  • What do you predict will happen in the next generation?
  • How can you convince someone that your predication makes sense?

Learn more about and practice understanding Fibonacci Numbers here.


Math Talk: Would You Rather?

Would you rather reduce faucet use by 20% or take 15% shorter showers? 

Which ever you choose, justify your reasoning with math.

Source: Would You Rather Math 


Intermediate Math Strands and Connections to Nature

Intermediate students use mathematics to investigate real questions about the natural world. They may collect and interpret data, compare rates of change, use measurement and geometry, create graphs or models, and support their conclusions with evidence. 

Students may explore the following strands:

  • Number: applying rational numbers, ratios, rates, percentages, and proportions in problem solving.
  • Algebra: representing and comparing linear and non-linear relations that model real-life situations.
  • Data: collecting, representing, analysing, and interpreting data to make evidence-case claims and informed decisions; for example, examining local weather, biodiversity, or seasonal observations.

Resources for Families

  • Interested in learning more about the Ontario Mathematics Curriculum?  A Parents Guide to Mathematics Grades 1-8 (2020) and Grade 9 Math: A Guide for Parents, details the content, structure, strands, and summaries of expectations in the Ontario Math Curriculum for parents.  

  • TVO Learn (K-12): Free Ontario curriculum-aligned learning resources created by Ontario Certified Teachers to support students, educators, and families. Select “Activities” and your child’s grade to get started.  


Looking for additional math resources?

Check out our past e-newsletters for more fun and exciting math games and challenges to do at home.

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