For Teachers

Why use Fulcrum Math manipulatives?
Here are five basic reasons to use manipulatives in the math classroom.

1. They interfere with mistakes!!!
2. They are motivational and engaging!
3. They create a conceptual anchor.
4. They bridge concrete thinking to abstract.
5. They address multiple learning styles.

Research confirms that all of these reasons are very important factors for successful learning and retention to occur. They create lasting memories that solidify the foundations of mathematical understanding!

When should manipulatives be used?
Math manipulatives should be used throughout the Teaching-Learning Spiral. They work well when introducing a concept (constructivist learning), supporting the retention and practice of a concept or algorithm, and/or as a demonstration of conceptual understanding.

How should manipulatives be used?
Although all math manipulatives have been designed to address a specific learning target, teachers should never lose sight of multiple possibilities for using a manipulative. When planning a lesson, take time to consider what available manipulatives would visually or kinesthetically support the delivery and retention of the lesson. For example, a sheet of paper is normally used for writing, but it can also be folded, cut and shaped, colored, etc., to enhance the remembrance of the lesson!

For whom are manipulatives designed and where should they be used?
Some people view manipulatives as designed only for struggling students, but research indicates that all students benefit and improve their learning by applying manipulatives in their learning. Our manipulatives are designed to be used with whole group, small group, and/or with individual students.

Which text of instructional program are your materials designed to support?
Fulcrum Math materials are designed to complement and support any and all texts and programs!

We include lesson plans on our website that have been successfully applied in math classrooms across the country. Please download them and use them if they fit your level of instruction, or adapt them to fit your instructional needs based on your assessments of your students. We welcome comments or suggestions for improvement of these lessons as well!