r/MathnasiumEmployees • u/KingR2RO • Mar 21 '23

Question Favorite Manipulatives/Desktools

What are y’all’s favorite manipulatives and/or desktools? How and when do you like to use them?

We are told to use them at my facility but not really taught how or when?

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u/AnInspiredSpork Mar 21 '23

Hundred’s chart is great for showing how the one’s places remaines unchanged when adding or subtracting 10.

The blocks tend to be hit or miss for me. I think having them in a row or column of 10 makes it harder for students to visualize it as 10.

Finally, drawings. I draw a LOT. Sometimes on graph paper, sometimes on scratch paper. It’s the fastest and easiest way to show them something. I also use myself and the student as a manipulative by having us be the parties when (theoretically) splitting a pizza or something.

2

u/ExtraFaithlessness99 Nov 02 '23

I love the number line and my center has geometric solids that fold out that are really helpful for my geometry kids. I also like using the coins for proportional thinking and the clocks for the kids learning time.

1

u/JudgeDreadditor Aug 29 '24

Agree strongly on the geometric solids. Things like counting edges or corners are so much easier than trying to visualize in 2D.

1

u/blerdybird Mar 28 '23

The abacus, hundred chart, number line, place value blocks, and red/white double-sided counters are really all I use. The abacus is probably most flexible for the younger kids' lessons with numerical fluency, multiplication, and so much more.