This grant will be used to purchase low-tech engineering and math manipulatives for the kindergarten classroom. These hands-on materials include self-correcting number puzzles, counting games, tactile ten frames, number stairs, tanagram puzzles, and building materials. Th
These materials will enrich students’ learning by providing engaging, interactive opportunities to explore foundational math concepts and deepen their conceptual understanding of the topics. With these materials, kindergarten students can model their thinking and build mathematical reasoning skills. This approach also encourages increased interaction and communication with peers around science and math concepts. Because kinesthetic, hands-on learning is especially effective for young learners, these resources are particularly impactful.These materials will have the biggest impact on students who are learning english as a second language, students with learning difficulties. and students who have had limited experience with early education.
The success of the program will be measured using beginning, middle, and end-of-year math assessments, along with teacher observation and informal assessment in the classroom. These assessments will help us monitor students’ understanding of key units and concepts.
These manipulatives will be used to support and enrich student learning in the classroom, alongside direct math instruction. These materials would provide students with additional, tangible opportunities to explore math and engineering concepts. Some of the materials are suitable for independent or partner work, while others would be used to support students in a small, teacher-led group.
Yes, these materials will be shared between two kindergarten and two TK classrooms. The manipulatives can also be shared with Tahoe Lake's special education team and with the English Language Development classes.
No other funding sources available.