Provides activities focusing on students' use of manipulatives to demonstrate understanding. (Author)

The construction of visual and manipulative aids, clear resin blocks with root-canal-like spaces, for simulation of root canals is explained. Time, materials, and techniques are discussed. The method allows for comparison of canals, creation of any configuration of canals, and easy presentation during instruction. (MSE)

Research findings show that mathematics is better learned by students experiencing it through manipulatives. However, interviews with 30 teachers of fourth through eighth grades reveal that many teachers were uncertain of how to use the manipulatives and felt manipulative instruction to be inappropriate for students above the fourth grade. (eight…

Notes that puzzles, the cornerstone of table-top or manipulative learning areas in early childhood programs, are structured materials, self-correcting toys that help children in a variety of developmental areas. Suggests that handmade puzzles are less expensive and can be tailored for specific concepts, themes, or skill levels. Provides…

Indicates that there has been a lot of work done and that a great deal needs to be done in the future to explore the world of children's early number. Discusses the counting, the use of algorithm, practical mathematics, the use of manipulatives, individual differences and pedagogical concerns, and classroom applications. Contains 18 references.…

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

Describes some of the many worthwhile activities to be done with Poly Plug, an activity board that engages children in mathematics. (Author/CCM)

Utilizes a survey to determine the use of manipulatives for mathematics instruction in rural school districts in Illinois. Concludes that the percentage of K-6 teachers using manipulatives for mathematics instruction in the seven rural counties was encouragingly high at 94%. (ASK)

The Indexical Hypothesis suggests a new method for enhancing children's reading comprehension. Young readers may not consistently "index," or map, words to the objects the words represent. Consequently, these readers fail to derive much meaning from the text. The instructional method involves manipulating toy objects referred to in the…

In previous articles, the author has discussed dominoes, the real game with scoring, and other good games and activities using dominoes. But dominoes, as materials for game-playing, and as a topic for mathematics learning experiences, as suggested by Swan (2001) and Brandreth (1975), have many other possibilities. In this article, the author…

In the renewed "Primary Framework for Mathematics" for England, great emphasis is given to calculation and its prerequisites (DfES, 2006). Expectations are increased for calculations and the recall of number facts, with mental calculation owning a higher profile, while progression in written calculation is clarified. The greater focus on…

This paper discusses the use of Stern teaching materials with children with Down syndrome. The theory underlying the design of the materials is discussed, the teaching approach and methodology are described and evidence supporting effectiveness is outlined. (Contains 2 figures.)

Each August, third grade artists at Apple Glen Elementary in Bentonville, Arkansas, start the school year planning, creating, and exhibiting a clay relief mural. These mural projects have helped students to acquire not only art knowledge and techniques, but an even more important kind of knowledge: what it means to plan and successfully complete a…

Child development theorists, researchers, and educators have long known that play is one of children's most valuable resources, vital to their social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Through play children make sense of the world around them and work through new experiences, ideas, and feelings. But in recent years, a host of social forces and…

Are your students engaged and motivated to read and write but hesitant during math instruction? Do you want your students to be as excited about math as they are about literacy? This unique resource explores how best practices for teaching reading and writing can help you become a better math teacher. Drawing on the work of such educators as…