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Math is a subject that is sometimes taught (erroneously) as an abstract subject involving lots of memorization and a genius level IQ to ever understand. When it is taught correctly, math becomes real and tangible. Students start to see math and numbers in the world around them and it starts to make sense to them.
That’s why I advocate hands-on math as much as possible. You can do that by choosing a hands-on curriculum and/or supplementing with math manipulatives.
In my mind, math manipulatives are anything that students can touch, handle, and manipulate in order to gain a better understanding of math and numbers. This can be done with traditional objects, real world opportunities, games, and even apps.
Math Manipulatives
- Dice
- Dominoes
- Candy
- Unifix Cubes
- Counting Bears
- Pattern Blocks
- Amazing Math Book
- Algebra Tiles
- Folding Geometric Shapes
Real World Math
- Money
- Budgeting
- Measuring Cups
- Sports scores
Math Games
Math Apps
While manipulatives are great teaching tools, apps are as well. Educational apps can be a good resource for review, practice, or for learning in a different way.
Janine at True Aim Education recently introduced me to iTooch 5th Grade Math app. This app contains more than 3575 activities for practicing and learning 5th grade math.
Features of iTooch:
- A clear, simple and engaging interface so that children learn with fun
- Speech synthesis option to help users in reading and text comprehension
- Multi-player management
- An embedded scientific calculator
- A virtual blackboard
- A lesson summary attached to each chapter
- In-app feedback to send suggestions to the author
- Font size adjustment to suit everyone’s needs
[…] Fun Math Manipulatives For All Ages […]