My students need math manipulatives such as counters, dice, dominoes, fraction bars, unit cubes, and base ten blocks to enhance daily math instruction for authentic and active 21st century learning.
Imagine a classroom where students are responsible for their own learning based on the guidance given to them by their teacher and are able to hone their knowledge independently because they have been provided with the tools and freedom to do so. That is what my classroom is like; my students are 21st century, active learners. They thrive on independence and being able to take the knowledge I share with them into practice on their own; especially 5th graders.
Being able to take their learning into their own hands serves as a powerful tool for them to work and slide through curriculum at their own terms.
Hence why I am creating this project so I can provide them with the proper tools and materials needed to have authentic learning experiences in the classroom and on their own.
My Project
We all have our preferred ways of learning. For me, I'm a visual learner and I need to see things in front of me in order to conceptualize what I am learning. Many students are the same way, especially when it comes to math. They can be told 2x6=12, but that doesn't mean they truly understand WHY that is. Hence students' need for math manipulatives! When given math manipulatives in the past, I have seen many "A-Ha!" moments happen because the concepts now make sense in their minds. Not only this, but bringing out that kinesthetic side of them in being able to physically manipulate objects to better understand content can aide in that visual and mental understanding.
Math manipulatives can make all the difference in a child's understanding of mathematical concepts while also providing differentiated, hands-on support that is both engaging and fun to interact with on a daily basis!
Thus these manipulatives will be used in our classroom to strengthen their core math skills and define their understanding of mathematics by challenging them to see to the whole picture. Whether working together in groups, independently or in a small group mini-lessons they can be used time and time again to help reinforce old and new skills and truly make math real and fun for them!
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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. Gonzalez and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
