Math can be such a tricky subject for students. Not every student is ready for abstract math with numbers and symbols. During math, my students complete rich tasks: open-ended word problems where students choose their own numbers. This helps students learn the same concept but at the level appropriate for them. But concepts can be made clearer if students have physical math tools to manipulate! That's why I like to provide different tools for students to choose from when we complete our math problems in class.
Allowing students the autonomy to choose their own tools and strategies creates more ownership in their work. They also begin to solve problems more efficiently after exploring different tools because they learn what works for them and what doesn't. To support this, my first graders are building personal math tubs with manipulatives at their disposal. While my school was able to purchase some of these materials, I do not have a class set. Your donation will help create a first grade class of efficient problem-solvers!
About my class
Math can be such a tricky subject for students. Not every student is ready for abstract math with numbers and symbols. During math, my students complete rich tasks: open-ended word problems where students choose their own numbers. This helps students learn the same concept but at the level appropriate for them. But concepts can be made clearer if students have physical math tools to manipulate! That's why I like to provide different tools for students to choose from when we complete our math problems in class.
Allowing students the autonomy to choose their own tools and strategies creates more ownership in their work. They also begin to solve problems more efficiently after exploring different tools because they learn what works for them and what doesn't. To support this, my first graders are building personal math tubs with manipulatives at their disposal. While my school was able to purchase some of these materials, I do not have a class set. Your donation will help create a first grade class of efficient problem-solvers!