Are you an upper grade teacher that is struggling to help your students engage with math meaningfully and build an understanding of math concepts?? Wondering if manipulatives would help?? If so, this is the podcast episode for you!
Even if you aren’t struggling, you will love my chat with Brittany who is the teacher behind Mix and Math. She is passionate about helping teachers grow their understanding of the math concepts they teach.
You will feel empowered after you listen to today’s episode with Brittany.
In this episode we will chat about:
- using representation in math
- changing the culture of using manipulatives in the math classroom
- types of representation
Using Representation in Math including Manipulatives
Using representation in math is crucial for helping students understand and engage with mathematical concepts effectively. Here are some ways representation can be used:
- Pictures: Visual representations such as diagrams, charts, and graphs can help students visualize mathematical concepts. For example, using a pie chart to represent fractions or a number line to show addition and subtraction.
- Manipulative Models: Physical objects like blocks, counters, or geometric shapes can be used as manipulatives to demonstrate mathematical operations. For instance, using blocks to illustrate addition and subtraction or geometric shapes to explore area and perimeter.
- Written Symbols: Mathematical symbols and notation are essential for communicating mathematical ideas. Teaching students how to interpret and use symbols like + (plus), – (minus), × (multiply), ÷ (divide), and = (equal) is fundamental.
- Real-World Situations: Connecting math to real-life scenarios helps students see the practical applications of mathematical concepts. For instance, using money to teach addition and subtraction or measuring ingredients in recipes to explore fractions and proportions.
- Oral Language: Discussing math concepts verbally helps reinforce understanding and allows students to explain their thinking. Encourage students to use mathematical vocabulary and explain their problem-solving strategies orally.
By incorporating these various forms of representation, educators can cater to different learning styles and enhance students’ mathematical comprehension and retention.
Changing the Culture of Using Manipulatives in the Math Classroom
Changing the culture of using manipulatives in the math classroom involves shifting attitudes and practices to promote the effective use of manipulatives as valuable learning tools. Here are some strategies to help achieve this:
- Teacher Training: Brittany has many videos on how to use Manipulatives in the classroom. Check out this one on YouTube, How to Teach Multiplying Fractions with Pattern Blocks.
- Curriculum Integration: Align manipulative use with learning objectives and standards to demonstrate their relevance and importance in achieving mathematical proficiency.
- Modeling: Model the use of manipulatives during math instruction to show students how to effectively use them to explore and solve problems. Demonstrate different strategies and encourage students to explain their thinking while using manipulatives. Students should know that manipulatives are encouraged for everyone, not just the students who struggle.
- Promote Exploration: Create a classroom environment that encourages exploration and experimentation with manipulatives. Provide opportunities for students to work collaboratively, solve problems creatively, and make connections between manipulative representations and abstract mathematical concepts.
By implementing these strategies, educators can create a positive and supportive culture around using manipulatives in the math classroom, ultimately enhancing students’ mathematical learning experiences.
About our guest, Brittany Hege:
Brittany Hege is a math educator who has worked with students and teachers in both upper elementary and middle grades. She holds a master’s degree in Elementary Mathematics Education and is passionate about helping teachers grow their understanding of the math concepts they teach. Brittany believes in the power of experiencing math through hands-on work and uses her platform, Mix and Math, to equip upper elementary teachers with the knowledge and confidence to inspire a generation of empowered math learners.
💻 Brittany Hege Website
Links:
¼ How to Teach Multiplying Fractions with Pattern Blocks – YouTube Training
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📕 Book Study Club with Brittany on Facebook
📘 Mathemetize It!
Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open@hellomonamath