Visualize Math On Your IWB With Thinking Blocks

I recently attended a mini workshop on implementing the Common Core in Math. A large portion of the strategies that I learned used manipulatives as modeling and learning tools. This reminded me of a post I read a few months ago on Teachers Love SMART Boards.  In the post, Jim outlines a neat math resource called Thinking Blocks.

Thinking Blocks is a site that offers you virtual manipulatives that you can project, and interact with on your Interactive White Board.  There are specific sections for Addition, Subtraction, Fractions, and Ratios.  Each section allows you to choose examples of varying difficulty as well as watch a video to go along with each example.

Once you are ready to begin solving your own, the program walks you through the steps of the equation, prompting you to place the thinking blocks where they go.  Students can track their progress as well.

If you would like to make your own word problems to solve, there is also a modeling tool section where you are free to type in your own problem and make your own thinking blocks to go with it!

Have fun modeling!

Vitual Math Manipulatives

Hey Math Teachers! No matter if you're teaching kindergarten or seniors, check out this site where you have access to literally hundreds of different virtual manipulatives, in all areas of math.

National Library of Virtual Manipulatives

To use the site, find your grade level are in the top row, then find your content area in the left column, and click the box where they intersect.

There is no need to download the full version...you already have everything at your fingertips for free!

Leave a comment to let me know what you think!