How Do You Make Math Lessons Fun With Manipulatives?
Make math come alive for elementary students. Math is a puzzle to be solved; it is games, riddles, and brainteasers. Quite simply, it is FUN! Some students though, think of math as a chore, a mystery that cannot be solved, or a roadblock, but a good teacher can unlock the mystery and make it fun and relevant for every child in the class. Here are some tried and true methods for making this happen with the use of manipulatives for a hands-on approach. When you are working with money, pull out the play money. Begin by letting students become familiar with the size and attributes of real coins. Point out the coins with smooth edges and rough edges as well as the color of each coin and the pictures on the front and back. Point out that the pictures on the coins have changed several times throughout the years. Provide students with older coins or pictures of them to compare with those most currently minted. Discuss the writing on the coins. Use coins and bills to make change or “pay” for it
