David Pleacher
Candy Math Fun
Few things can motivate children to learn like the promise of a sweet and tasty treat. Given a bag of M&M®s, Skittles®, or other colorful candy, students first predict the contents of the bag before counting the pieces, creating a...
Curated OER
Data Analysis and Probability: Graphing Candy with Excel
Collect and graph data using Microsoft Excel with your math class. They will make predictions about the number of each colored candy in a bag of M&M's, then sort, classify, count, and record the actual data before using Excel to...
Curated OER
M&M Math
Young scholars sort a bag of M&M candies according to color using a sorting mat. They count M&M candies. They compare the number to their prediction then students create tally charts.
Curated OER
Constant Dimensions
Young scholars explore measuring units by investigating the dimensions of different objects. In this data graphing lesson, students utilize candy, beads and fingers to measure different dimensions of geographic figures. Young scholars...
Curated OER
Edible Math
Second graders use M&M candies to graph colors, illustrate story problems and practice hands-on math. They use spreadsheets, worksheets and graphs to organize math problems that use M&M's.
Curated OER
M&M Science and Math
A series of math and science activities feature M&M's® as manipulatives to help kids work through equations. The resource includes exercises on finding averages, percent of compositions, moles in chemical reactions, genotypes and...
Curated OER
The Calculus Whiz Who Loved Candy
Students develop an equation for finding the volume of a commonly known piece of candy (M&M, Hershey's Kiss, Tootsie Roll Pop, Life Saver, etc.) by using calculus.
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M&M Caper
Students participate in a game with M&M's to be introduced to percents and ratios. Individually, they estimate and record the number of candies they believe the bag holds and the amount of each colored candy. They open the bag and...
Curated OER
Exponential Functions -- M&M Activity
Students receive cups and M & M candies. They perform an experiment to compare the graph of theoretical and experimental exponential growth. Students spill a pair of candies onto the table. They add candies for each "M" they see....
Curated OER
Carbon Dating
Simulate C-14 decay using M&M and Reese's Pieces candies. In this scatter-plot lesson, students perform an experiment to simulate the half life of C-14. Information is plotted on a scatter-plot. Students answer four comprehension...
Curated OER
Get a Half-life!
Students use m&m candies as their sample set. They begin by counting the total number of candies to determine their sample size. Students put the candies into a cup and shake them gently before pouring them onto a paper plate. Count...
Curated OER
Using Fractions to Represent M&M Colors
Students investigate the concept of fraction and tangible application. In this algebra instructional activity, students use fractions to solve real life scenarios. They convert between fractions and decimals and identify the numerator...
Curated OER
Statistics with M&Ms
Seventh graders explore estimation, measurement, and probability. Students conduct surveys and create charts & graphs. They study the history of chocolate. Students design their own magazine advertisement or create a script for a...
Microsoft
Microsoft Education Lesson Plan: Candy Is Dandy
Explore color distribution of M&M candies using this detailed lesson plan. An engaging integrated lesson that requires understanding of spreadsheets and formulas, and logical reasoning. Links to related websites.