Multiple Representations: Manipulatives
Overview
Providing physical and virtual representations of numbers and math concepts helps activate mental processes. Learners understand more deeply through hands-on experimentation and exploration with manipulatives. Research has found that manipulatives are effective when students are in the concrete operational stage -- where seeing an actual object supports their ability to think about it. As students become able to think about an object without it being there (formal operational stage, which usually begins at 11 years or older), manipulatives start to become less effective but can still offer some cognitive support.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
Watch how this middle school student uses manipulatives to practice equations and problem solving. By using dice and playing pieces, she demonstrates her thinking by talking through her problem solving process, further supporting moving these concepts and skills into Long-term Memory.
Design It into Your Product
Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.
Learn how products such as DragonBox Numbers allow learners to playfully explore digital manipulatives to strengthen their number sense. Through various games using the manipulatives, learners can build Geometric Reasoning and enhance Algebraic Thinking.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Multisensory Supports Strategies
Adding motions to complement learning activates more cognitive processes for recall and understanding.
Short breaks that include mindfulness quiet the brain to allow for improved thinking and emotional regulation.
Brain breaks that include movement allow learners to refresh their thinking and focus on learning new information.
Connecting information to music and dance can support Short-term and Long-term Memory by engaging auditory processes, Emotions, and physical activity.
Incorporating multiple senses with strategies like chewing gum, using a fidget, and sitting on a ball chair supports focus and Attention.
Using earplugs or headphones can increase focus and comfort.
Transforming written text into audio activates different parts of the brain to support learning.
Visual supports, like text magnification, colored overlays, and guided reading strip, help students focus and properly track as they read.
