Abstract

Why do you use manipulatives (concrete resources) in your classroom? Are your decisions based on pedagogy, practicality or preference? The plethora of multi-coloured plastic in maths schemes and textbooks offers a veritable smorgasbord of options for teachers when planning lessons. But is it a case of choice overload when it comes to thinking more deeply about why we use certain manipulatives to teach specific concepts in maths? This session will unpick six key themes in manipulatives research and consider how teachers can apply these principles in their own classrooms. You will have the chance to share your views and experiences throughout this thought-provoking session.