My students need math manipulatives to help them build their conceptual understanding of new ideas such as fractions and multiplication in a hands-on manner.
Third grade is a time of change for most students. School work begins to look more difficult, emotions tend to run high, and playground "gossip" is starting to become the norm. For many students, third grade is a time when "little adults" start to blossom. Despite the challenges and change that third grade starts to bring, comfort is found in the routine of coming to school. Knowing this, it was important to establish a "classroom family" at the beginning of the year. In our classroom, we see ourselves as a true family - the good, the bad, and the quirky.
As members of a school family, we understand the importance of supporting one another, listening to one another, and celebrating with one another.
Throughout the school year, the students have become a close-knit community of learners both inside and outside of the classroom. These students have shown compassion for one another in ways well beyond their years; they understand how to be a part of a family and how to work towards a common goal. These third graders are models for their peers in our suburban South Carolina school. As both students and citizens, they give me hope.
My Project
In third grade, students are introduced to a variety of mathematical concepts for the first time. Fractions, multiplication, and division are all new ideas for these young minds. To eight and nine year olds, these concepts are also abstract. Math manipulatives will help to make these new concepts more understandable as they promote hands-on learning in an engaging manner. In addition, these manipulatives are versatile to the point that they will be useful in a variety of lessons throughout the school year. Familiar objects such as dominoes, dice, and pattern blocks are useful in multiplication games, helping to illustrate area and perimeter, and in conceptualizing fractions.
This project provides quality, durable manipulatives that promote hands-on, conceptual learning at an age when learning gets tough.
Students deserve to be set up for success when being introduced to new topics. The authentic conversations and collaborative work that are a result of hands-on learning in the math classroom are one way to work towards this success.
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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 Mr. Slagle and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
