article
Take some ... counters
This article for primary teachers outlines how using counters can support mathematical teaching and learning.
article
Manipulatives in the primary classroom
In this article for teachers, Jenni Back offers research-based guidance about the use of manipulatives in the classroom.
problem
Favourite
Biscuit decorations
Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
Andrew decorated 20 biscuits to take to a party. He lined them up and put icing on every second biscuit and different decorations on other biscuits. How many biscuits weren't decorated?
problem
Favourite
Number lines
Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
A resource to try once children are familiar with number lines, and they have begun to use them for addition. It could be a good way to talk about subtraction. Leah and Tom each have a number line. Can you work out where their counters will land?
problem
Making shapes
Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
Arrange any number of counters from these 18 on the grid to make a rectangle. What numbers of counters make rectangles? How many different rectangles can you make with each number of counters?
problem
Favourite
Bracelets
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
Investigate the different shaped bracelets you could make from 18 different spherical beads. How do they compare if you use 24 beads?
problem
Favourite
Square corners
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
What is the greatest number of counters you can place on the grid below without four of them lying at the corners of a square?
problem
Favourite
First connect three
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
Add or subtract the two numbers on the spinners and try to complete a row of three. Are there some numbers that are good to aim for?
article
Place your counters...
An article for teachers which first appeared in the MA's Equals journal, featuring activities which use counters.
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