

Why manipulatives matter in the maths classroom
11 snips Apr 1, 2025
Join Dr. Sue Gifford, a retired expert in early childhood maths education, Emma Barker, a primary mastery specialist, and Guy Carpenter, a secondary maths innovator, as they dive into the power of manipulatives in math education. They explore how hands-on tools enhance understanding and boost student engagement, revealing their impact on reducing math anxiety. The discussion emphasizes the need for tailored training for teachers to maximize these educational tools' effectiveness across all levels. Discover the transformative role manipulatives play in shaping confident math learners!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Manipulatives Enhance Math Learning
- Manipulatives, like blocks or counters, help children learn math by making ideas tangible.
- They provide visual aids for understanding mathematical relationships.
Effective Manipulative Use Requires Training
- Provide professional development for teachers to use manipulatives effectively.
- Guide them on how to choose manipulatives and connect them to math concepts.
Patterning with Manipulatives Fosters Reasoning
- Children engaged in patterning activities with manipulatives showed strong reasoning skills.
- They enjoyed creating, copying, and challenging each other's patterns, leading to discussions about mathematical relationships.