Manipulatives are a wonderful way to keep students engaged and enthusiastic in math. They allow students to move from the concrete movement of objects to demonstrate mathematic calculations to the more abstract reasoning. Many math researchers recommend math manipulatives be in use in all grade classrooms, not just the early years.
Here are the Top Uses for Manipulatives in Math:
- Counting
- Sorting
- Patterning
- Recognizing shapes
- Explaining reasoning
- Understanding base ten
- Measuring
- Problem Solving
- Building confidence
Using manipulatives is also a lot of fun!
Here are some of our NEW math manipulatives available at Quality Classrooms:
Translucent Stackable Counters are a versatile alternative to base ten if base ten is not in your classroom. Individual counters can be stacked into rods of ten and then tens can be grouped to make one hundred.
Playing on a light source encourages investigation of light, colour and shape. Adding light can also help to focus a group.
Translucent plastic counters (2cm diameter) in 6 colours can be stacked into towers or used for counting, sorting, pattern making and sequencing.
Includes reusable storage container. 500 pieces. Age 3+.
Robust and tactile, this appealing set of Tactile Counting Stones displays number arrays from 1 to 10. Perfect for number bonds to 20, these stones are made from a unique stone mix and are durable for use in sand, water and outside.
Use them to introduce and support math concepts including counting, number recognition, subitizing and number bonds.
Contains 20 stones (two sets of 1–10) measuring approx. 7.5cm in length. Age 3+.
Foam Factor Tiles will aid students in practicing their multiplication up to 12, learning the meaning of prime numbers, understanding factors and creating factor diagrams. Perfect for quiet group learning.
The set contains 149 colour-coded foam pieces. The largest piece is 5cm high. Includes instruction guide with activities and games. Grade 3+.
Explore plane geometry on the desktop with Connecting Bars that are able to snap together at any angle end-to-end. Investigate angles in polygons with included protractors that also connect to the connecting bars.
Grade K+. Includes 10 student sets, 1 transparent set and activity cards all stored in a reusable container.
An exciting way to play with algebra: The Four-Pan Algebra Balance is a unique balance and lets you demonstrate that -1 < 0. Weights placed on the outer pans represent negative integers, and those placed in the inner pans represent positive integers, making it possible to demonstrate that (-1) + (+1) = 0.
Includes 4 plastic pans, 4 plastic canisters, a set of plastic weights, and Activity Guide. Some assembly required. Grade 6+.