Using Manipulatives in a Secondary Math Classroom
In elementary school, I can recall using manipulatives for many different concepts that we learned. For example, we used “linking cubes” when learning to count and when first introduced to addition and subtraction problems. We also used “base-ten blocks” when discussing place value and small clocks when learning to tell time. These physical tools kept me more engaged and allowed me to better understand the topics we were discussing because I could visually see the concepts in front of me. However, I can rarely remember using manipulatives once I moved up into higher grade levels. In middle school and high school math classes, it can be difficult to find ways to use manipulatives, especially if students have not been using them previously. Introducing virtual manipulatives could be the “bridge” that is needed to supply that visual picture for students. Rather than having to provide the physical tools for every student, going virtual co...