Change begins in the classroom. Math is a part of our everyday lives, from reading the alarm clock to making a meal and driving to work. Students need to have basic number sense to be successful in all aspects of their daily lives.
My students are all fifth graders who attend public school in California.
They are the most diverse population in the school. They are mostly Hispanic students whom are also learning English. Most are from lower socio-economic families who receive free and reduced priced lunches. All of these students have a language disability which makes learning even more difficult. They are very energetic students who love to learn. They enjoy learning centers and hands-on activities. They like to be physically engaged in what they are learning.
My Project
My students need math manipulatives like Tangrams, dominies, dice, and lapboards to help them gain a stronger number sense foundation.
Math manipulatives bring math to life for many children. Being able to physically see what is happening to a number or happening in a problem brings meaning and understanding to children and aids in the learning process. My students will benefit from being able to manipulate and problem solve with having tangible items to use. Manipulatives allow for more creativity in the classroom, especially math which typically involves only paper and pencil. The use of manipulatives will allow all of the students to become engaged in learning mathematical operations and skills.
My hopes are that because of this proposal my students will be better able to solve basic operations and gain a better understanding of the mathematical concepts. I will be able to provide learning centers and activities for the students. The more my students are engaged, the more they will learn.
Math is a basic skill needed in order to function in society.
These students struggle with developing basic number sense. Math manipulatives will help bring a better sense of understanding to these students. Being able to physically manipulate a problem allows students to see what is actually occurring when you solve a math equation. My classroom lacks the manipulatives that these students need. These manipulatives will make a daily difference in many students lives. They will promote understanding.
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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 Mrs. Sakalosky and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.