Review of Math Manipulatives
Review of Math Manipulatives
Review of Math Manipulatives
Rachel Matheson
St. Thomas University
February 2016
Snap Cubes
Snap Cubes are a manipulative
great for all elementary levels,
as they can be used in multiple
ways with many different
outcomes. Snap Cubes can be
used at lower levels for
counting and simple patterns.
At upper levels, these cubes can
be used for more complex
patterns, measurement (each
cube is a standard measure),
and for visually representing
data (stack and align cubes to
create a 3-D bar graph or
histogram).
What might be the best aspect of using snap cubes in the elementary
classroom is the excitement that arises when students gain access to the
cubes. They are bright, colourful, tactile, and fun! Using snap cubes
engages the learner and prepares them for hands-on learning.
Miras
Fraction Blocks
Fraction blocks are an excellent resource for
students learning the concept of fractions.
These manipulatives are particularly useful
for understanding the part-of-a-whole
concept for the introduction of fractions to
elementary students. These blocks allow
students to place the smaller parts on top of
the larger parts to take part in part-whole
thinking. I have experience working with
students who have difficulty understand the
part-whole relationship, but when they are
exposed to fraction blocks, they seem to
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grasp the concept quicker and with ease. Along with fraction blocks, pattern
blocks can also be used as a form of fraction blocks to understand the partwhole relationship by expanding it with the use of multiple shapes (parts)
that can be placed together to form one whole.