What is a classroom resource a paraprofessional could utilize for math instruction?

Using manipulatives, such as blocks or counters, to illustrate mathematical concepts is an effective classroom resource for math instruction. Manipulatives provide a tactile way for students to engage with abstract mathematical ideas, making learning more concrete. They can help students visualize problems, understand relationships between numbers, and build foundational skills in ways that purely theoretical methods cannot achieve. For example, when students use blocks to represent addition or subtraction, they can physically see and manipulate the quantities involved. This hands-on approach caters to various learning styles and can be especially beneficial for students who may struggle with traditional methods of instruction.

In contrast, relying solely on textbooks limits student engagement and does not provide opportunities for practical application or exploration of math concepts. Online videos, while useful for providing explanations, may bypass the essential hands-on experiences that manipulatives offer. Similarly, worksheets that consist only of written problems may not engage all learners and can lead to a lack of understanding, as they don’t allow for the interaction and manipulation of objects that can deepen comprehension in mathematics.