Washington Elementary teacher Katherine Mickelson knows that third-grade students approach math in different ways. To give students more ways to explore and understand math concepts, Mickelson used her PEF Teacher Grant to bring new hands-on tools into her classroom, including Magnetic Pattern Block Builders, Jumbo Double-Sided Magnetic Money, and Math Manipulative Libraries.
Working alongside the Ready Math curriculum, students use the materials to model mathematical concepts, solve problems, and make connections between hands-on learning and more abstract ideas. Magnetic pattern blocks help students explore shapes, symmetry, geometry, and fractions. Jumbo magnetic money brings financial literacy lessons to life as students practice counting, making change, and problem-solving with realistic models. The manipulative libraries support work with multiplication, division, place value, and other math skills.
One of the most exciting parts of the project for Mickelson was seeing students who were typically quieter during math class become leaders during hands-on activities. Students found new confidence modeling their thinking, explaining strategies, and collaborating with their peers. For English learners and developing readers, the visual and tactile materials provided another way to demonstrate mathematical thinking and share ideas with classmates.
The hands-on approach helped students become more comfortable taking risks. Rather than viewing mistakes as failures, students became more willing to try different approaches, revise their thinking, and work through problems together. Math became something students could see, touch, discuss, and explore.
Other teachers at Washington took notice of the engagement and collaboration the manipulatives sparked, and several expressed interest in bringing similar tools into their own instruction. Because the materials are durable and designed for repeated use, they will continue supporting students in Mickelson’s classroom for years to come.
Interested in classroom projects like this? You can support the work of teachers like Katherine Mickelson by donating to PEF Teacher Grants.
