Attribute blocks are described, with suggestions for developing sets of attribute materials. Various activities and games are described and illustrated. (MNS)

Instruments have been used for centuries in mathematical experience and in the teaching tradition as well. One example is cultural instruments inherited from tradition (e.g., rulers, abaci, compasses, curve-drawing devices) that have followed or anticipated the theoretical development of mathematics. In this article, the authors analyze two cases…

This book provides elementary school teachers, physical education specialists, special education teachers, recreation leaders, and parents with some innovative ideas for construction and utilization of homemade playground equipment. Activities which have been found to be interesting to children and adaptable to large classes are suggested. The…

The establishment of a mathematics laboratory, staffed mainly by volunteer parents, is described. Later college student volunteers and a paid aide were added. Organization, training sessions, materials, problems, and evaluation are discussed. (LS)

Details and diagrams of apparatus for coordination, shape and color recognition, number work, matching, and other basic skills, constructed for use in elementary special education classes, are provided. (DT)

Four major types of games using two sets of materials (Logical Blocks and word cards) are described: free play with the materials; organization of materials; relations games; and classification by one, two, or three attributes simultaneously. (DT)

Teachers can use unit blocks as tools for directed learning activities, or blocks can be reserved for children's discovery learning experiences. To use unit blocks for discovery learning, children need adequate, protected space and sufficient, uninterrupted time. Given opportunities for free play with unit blocks, children progress through seven…

The results of a survey of elementary school teachers in North Dakota are reported, in a search for answers to two questions: (1) What manipulative materials are currently being used for mathematics instruction, and to what extent; and (2) Who is using them? A brief review of previous research indicated that the use of manipulative materials is…

The rationale behind the use of mathematics laboratories is stated, then directions for organizing and implementing a math lab are given. Topics such as housekeeping, keeping an inventory, noise level, record keeping and assignments, giving grades, correlating textbooks with a math lab, and finding meaningful laboratory problems are each discussed…

Text and illustrations show how to assemble furniture and toys out of cardboard tubes and sheets. Basic directions are provided, and the tools and materials necessary to the assembly of specific items are described. (MLF)

This literature review focuses on determining the psychological variables related to problem solving and presents arguments for self-correcting manipulatives as a media for teaching problem solving. Ten traits are considered: attitude, debilitating anxiety, self-concept, orderliness, set, confidence, impulsive/reflective thinking, concentration…

The study attempted to show that the first grade child's learning in a new area must involve overt concrete experiences from which new ideas will be derived. Forty-nine students, assigned to six groups, were instructed on three scientific concepts. The verbal instruction technique was similar to that suggested in SCIS. The application segment…

Described is "Project SOSO" designed to help elementary teachers improve methods for teaching arithmetic to low achievers in the sixth grade. The project developed methods and primarily free and/or inexpensive materials for teaching whole numbers, fractions, number theory, geometry, and probability. Preliminary results indicate that low achievers'…

This teachers' guide lists manipulative aids, audio-visual materials, and demonstration materials for use in the elementary school mathematics classroom. Organization of the guide follows that of the California Strands Report (1967-68), as represented by these nine strands of mathematical content: numbers and numerals, geometry, measurements,…

Directions are given for folding paper to show geometric figures and relationships. Topics covered are folding the basic constructions, geometric concepts concerning triangles and quadrilaterals, circle relationships, products and factors, polygon constructions, symmetry, conic sections, and recreations. (DT)