Building Brilliance: Math Manipulatives for Young Minds
Help me give my students access to hands-on math manipulatives to help them better understand and engage with abstract math concepts through concrete, interactive learning.
Many of my third-grade students come from underserved communities and have limited access to hands-on learning materials, both at school and at home. This lack of tactile resources can make abstract math concepts difficult to grasp, especially for young learners who benefit from concrete experiences. By introducing a variety of math manipulatives into our classroom, students will have the opportunity to physically explore math concepts like place value, fractions, geometry, and multiplication in a way that deepens understanding and retention.
Math manipulatives such as base-ten blocks, fraction tiles, number lines, geometric solids, and hands on games will provide essential visual and tactile support for students who struggle with traditional paper-pencil tasks.
These tools will help bridge the gap between concrete understanding and abstract thinking, allowing students to make meaningful connections between numbers and operations. For my English Language Learners and students with ADHD, manipulatives also offer a more accessible, engaging, and interactive approach to learning that keeps them focused and actively participating.
By creating a more hands-on, inclusive, and engaging math environment, this project will foster a deeper sense of confidence and curiosity in my students. Instead of seeing math as a subject to fear or avoid, students will be encouraged to explore, question, and take risks. These manipulatives will not only support their academic growth but will also help them develop the problem-solving and critical thinking skills they need for future success.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Ferolito and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.