Dominoes are small tiles with a set of numbers and dots that can be placed edge to edge to form connections and sequences. They are used in many different games and serve as a way to foster social connection, even across linguistic or cultural boundaries. This makes them a great tool to use in a classroom, as they provide an opportunity to explore mathematical concepts while building a story that engages and holds interest.
In the 1700’s dominoes spread in popularity throughout Italy. The game continues to have a strong hold on the global culture and is now played in bustling city squares and quiet village homes alike. The game’s significance stretches beyond fostering social interaction, as dominoes also encourage a healthy dose of competition and critical thinking. The strategic placement of dominoes requires foresight and planning to maintain a cohesive structure, teaching valuable skills that extend far beyond the gaming table.
Each domino has a specific number, which must align with matching values on adjacent tiles. This provides students with a visual representation of addition, demonstrating that the total number of dots on each end can be written in any order. It also supports Mathematical Practice Standard 8, Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
When Hevesh first creates one of her mind-blowing domino installations, she puts each section up on a flat surface and carefully tests them out to make sure they work correctly. She also films each part of the arrangement to make adjustments when needed, and then she starts putting them together. Hevesh builds the largest 3-D sections of an installation first, then adds flat arrangements and finally lines of dominoes that connect each section to the next.
Using Dominoes in Stories
As students work with dominoes they learn the importance of having smooth actions that flow from one scene to another. If a story has hiccups or the action doesn’t lead to a climax, readers will get bored and stop reading. To keep readers engaged, it is important to build your scenes carefully so that your story can fall into place like a domino.
Dominoes have been a popular toy since the early 1800s and continue to be loved around the world. The popularity of the game reaches across cultures and ages, and the ability to adapt and improvise is what makes it so successful.
In modern times, dominoes are often made of plastic to reduce costs and environmental impact. However, traditional sets are often made from bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory or a dark hardwood such as ebony, with contrasting black or white pips. These types of sets are still available, and have a much more classic and elegant look than those made from polymer materials.
Before Doyle became CEO, Domino’s struggled with customer loyalty and high turnover rates. Doyle took the company back to its roots, focusing on its core value of “Champion Our Customers.” He relaxed Domino’s dress code, introduced new leadership training programs and college recruiting systems, and spoke directly with employees to hear their concerns. He knew that if the company didn’t listen to its customers, it would be out of business in no time.