Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
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The use of manipulatives in math education is supported by educational research and learning theory. Papert (1980) calls them "objects to think with". My high school students have a number of skill gaps in their mathematical landscape. Many have not previously used these manipulatives to more deeply understand the algorithms they were expected to memorize. By being able to incorporate "just in time" supports, math centers, and problem solving opportunities, my young adult math learners will more solidly recognize the strategy behind a skill and will be more confident in transitioning to more abstract work later.
The manipulatives allow students the chance to build and refine their understanding. The manipulatives also support opportunities for students to explain their thinking to others by including a visual model to aid in their presentation. By providing opportunities to deconstruct a geometric figure, a math learner will be able to apply the skills in future applications. The combination of a visual model, use of vocabulary, and justification of their problem solving will lead to more connections and deeper levels of understanding.
About my class
The use of manipulatives in math education is supported by educational research and learning theory. Papert (1980) calls them "objects to think with". My high school students have a number of skill gaps in their mathematical landscape. Many have not previously used these manipulatives to more deeply understand the algorithms they were expected to memorize. By being able to incorporate "just in time" supports, math centers, and problem solving opportunities, my young adult math learners will more solidly recognize the strategy behind a skill and will be more confident in transitioning to more abstract work later.
The manipulatives allow students the chance to build and refine their understanding. The manipulatives also support opportunities for students to explain their thinking to others by including a visual model to aid in their presentation. By providing opportunities to deconstruct a geometric figure, a math learner will be able to apply the skills in future applications. The combination of a visual model, use of vocabulary, and justification of their problem solving will lead to more connections and deeper levels of understanding.