Math Tools
Math Tools
One of the most important ways for students to learn about math and ways that we can be flexible with our thinking is by manipulating objects to make the math happen. There are a variety of tools or manipulatives we use to give students this experience and to help them be able to see and be flexible with their math exploration. By watching kids as they use manipulatives we can see the process they undertake to solve a problem. Using these concrete objects helps build a solid foundation for more abstract math ideas.
Virtual Math Tools
Virtual Manipulatives can be found by clicking on the image below (Please note that the dice will not work)
Math Tools Sent In Brain Bags
Below are links to the paper tools that we sent home in the Brain Bags.
Math Manipulatives Around the House
Manipulatives are often used when counting, measuring, making patterns, sorting, and more. So what can you use as math manipulatives? Well, a lot of things! Be creative and take a look around your house. You’d be surprised what you’ll find. Here’s a list of a few possible items.
Kitchen
Silverware
Plastic Cups
Paper Cups
Toothpicks
Lids
Small snack foods (bite size crackers, marshmallows, candies, pieces of fruit, etc)
Beans
Straws
Cupcake Liners
Egg cartons
Muffin Tins-regular and mini
Bathroom
Cotton Swabs
Cotton Balls
Hairbows
Craft Closet
Pom poms
Clothespins
Chenille stems
Stickers
Pony Beads
Craft Sticks
Glass Beads
Rubber Bands
Buttons
Crayons
Googly Eyes
Feathers
Playroom
Small toys-action figures, mini dolls
Cars
Blocks
Legos
Game pieces-checkers, dominoes, playing cards
Outdoors
Rocks
Leaves
Twigs
Flower Petals
Tool Area
Screws
Nuts and Bolts
Ping pong balls
Packing peanuts (save these as you get them in shipping boxes)
Piggy Bank
Coins
Pennies
Nickels
Dimes
Quarters
(students only learn coin values and names in 2nd grade, as much experience as students can get counting coins by the values is very helpful). This is a great way to practice counting by 1's, 5's 10's and 25's once students know the value of each coin.