Every teacher knows the importance of having an organized classroom. Part of that organization includes equipping each student with a “math tool kit” so they can easily access the necessary supplies and manipulatives needed to succeed in math class. But what should those kits include? Let’s dive into the essentials you need for your student’s math tool kit!
The Basics: Pencils, Rulers, Erasers & Highlighters
It almost goes without saying that pencils, rulers, erasers, and highlighters should be included in every student’s math tool kit. You never know when a student will need to draw something or solve a problem involving measurements. Highlighters are also incredibly handy for annotating assignment directions and keywords in word problems!
Fraction Strips & Decimals Tiles
Fraction strips and decimal tiles are great tools to help students visualize fractions, decimals and percentages as well as understand how various operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) work with them. Whether it’s color-coded fraction strips or colorful decimal tiles that snap together like puzzle pieces, these items can help make abstract concepts more concrete for students. I’ve included a fraction strip freebie to get your math tool kits started!
(Fraction Strip LM)
Dice & Spinners
Dice and spinners can add an element of fun to the classroom while still providing useful learning opportunities. Both these tools are great for generating random numbers for all kinds of operations. And your kids will always be ready for a math game-check out these fan-faves below. Pro-tip: look for dice made of hard foam to save yourself a little noise pollution once the kids start rolling at the same time. Plus, there’s something about spinning a wheel that just screams “fun!”
Mini Multiplication Charts
These mini charts are perfect for helping students master their multiplication facts quickly. They fit perfectly inside any math tool kit so students have easy access to them whenever they need them! Not only do these charts help build fluency with multiplication facts but they also foster memorization which is crucial for future success in higher-level math classes down the road.
With all of these items packed away neatly inside their own little bag or box, your students will always have all the essential materials at their disposal when tackling challenging problems during class time. All you have to do is equip each student with a math tool kit at the beginning of the school year – then sit back and watch their confidence soar through successful problem-solving!