Describes the use of string figures to help students develop intuitive concepts about shape and space. (MKR)

Uses pattern blocks to model basic parts-of-a-whole fraction concepts. Suggests that students reflect these models in oral, written, pictorial, and symbolic representations. (MKR)

Presents an activity that capitalizes on the particular advantages of physical and computer pattern blocks. (KHR)

Different regular-polygon-shaped candles wound with a sheet of paper are cut through obliquely. When the papers are unwound, unique patterns are revealed. Investigation of these patterns leads to the discovery of geometric concepts. (JP)

Presents a mathematics investigation in which students discover number patterns in physical structures and express their generalizations algebraically. (MKR)

Describes geometry-related activities that explore tessellation patterns and use origami and paper to create three-dimensional figures and pop-up cards. (MKR)

Presents an activity centering on Baravelle spirals in regular polygons to review and connect a number of algebraic and geometric topics, as well as to involve students in formal calculations, visualization, pattern discovery, series, estimation, and recursion. (MKR)

Three worksheets are provided; the aim is to develop skill in visualization of the cube from two-dimensional patterns. (DT)

Presents cost analyses of building a patio, incorporating manipulatives, pattern building, graphing calculators, matrix applications, and functions. Includes reproducible student worksheet. (MKR)

This manipulative learning aid is featured as a tool that allows a teacher to build upon the recognition of number patterns to teach basic mathematical understanding. The activities provide a means to help children refine, develop, and extend their understanding of the number system. (MP)

The first article describes students' activities with tiling patterns and tessellations; the second discusses the use of balances and weights as an approach to number concepts. (DT)

Patterns of equilateral triangles, squares, rectangles, and regular pentagons are provided for students to use in building models of polyhedra. (DT)

Presents activities which use patterns on geoboards or dot paper to develop geometry and measurement concepts. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Argues that basic components of discrete mathematics can be introduced to students through gradual elaboration of experiences with iconic spreadsheet-based simulations of concrete materials. Suggests that the study of homogeneous and heterogeneous patterns of manipulative spreadsheet templates allows for appreciation of the development of…

Discusses the categories of spatial thinking and explains methods for helping students develop spatial thinking skills, ask open-ended questions, and choose student-centered activities. Provides activity examples that involve spatial thinking for elementary grades. (YDS)