One of the important things we need to remember about teaching mathematics is to have fun. Both students and teachers benefit from fun and interactive activities in the classroom, and learning mathematics this way is no exception. Most of the math curriculum can be taught using either manipulatives or real-life applications, and when at all possible, these methods should be incorporated into the lessons.
Some teachers have their fortes in other subject areas aside from math, and often feel discouraged or intimidated when trying to incorporate manipulatives into their lessons, or even stray away from the layout of the textbook. Classroom management becomes a greater concern when group work is introduced or manipulatives are brought out for instruction. Kids see groups as an opportunity to socialize or see manipulatives as toys to play with. The overall benefits significantly outweigh the cons to using manipulatives. Teachers can even deeper their understanding of the curriculum by simply watching the students explore and build upon their ideas.
If proper rules and structures are put in place before hand, if the teacher is well prepared for the lesson, and if the lesson includes opportunities for exploration, collaboration and reflection for the students, then there is no reason why the lesson and use of the manipulatives can't be successful.
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