Chris Shore is quick to note that he did not invent Clothesline Math. However, he is the author of the Clothesline Math website, and producer of many of the materials on the site, so I think he definitely deserves some credit!
When I first ran across this site, I was a bit dubious of the value of a Clothesline Math activity. Basically, the teacher gives out a set of number tents to students, who then must hang them on a clothesline (which represents a number line). However, once I watched Shore’s video explaining how he introduces Clothesline Math, I realized how this seemingly simple activity could really start some incredible math class discussions. There are many decisions students need to make when they determine what benchmarks to use on the numberline, the order to place their numbers, and the amount of space in between. Even with a set of 3 fractions (1/2, 1/3, and 1/4), you could take up an entire class period.
Shore provides different sets of printable numbers (from various math disciplines) and an answer document on his site. Of course you can DIY with your own supplies and number sets based on whatever you are studying in math class at the moment.
I like the idea of students reasoning through this, and having to justify their responses. It can also be a great visual and kinesthetic activity that will be much more meaningful that choosing from multiple choice answers on a worksheet.
For more intriguing math sites, take a look at 15 Math Sites That Won’t Make You Fall Asleep. Let’s get our students excited about math!
