When teaching math in the middle school classroom, using tools and manipulatives to make math accessible to all learners is non-negotiable. Although physical math tools have been the standard, there are incredible online math tools and manipulatives that make it easier than ever to differentiate engaging math instruction.
There are infinite ways to include these tools in your classroom, but if you want an example to get your ideas flowing, you can check out this lesson I created to introduce equivalent fractions to an inclusive third grade class using virtual fraction strips.
And here are my favorite tools:
The Math Learning Center: Math Apps
The Math Learning Center (MLC) offers a fantastic suite of free math apps designed to make learning interactive and engaging. These apps are based on visual models from their Bridges in Mathematics curriculum, but they can be used with any math program. If you’re looking for high-quality, free digital tools to enhance math instruction, The Math Learning Center apps are definitely worth exploring!
Math Learning Center (MLC) Apps:
- Fractions
- Geoboard
- Math Clock
- Math Vocabulary Cards
- Money Pieces
- Number Chart
- Number Frames
- Number Line
- Number Pieces
- Number Rack
- Partial Product Finder
- Pattern Shapes
Open Up Resources: Math Tools
Open Up Resources (OUR) provides a wealth of digital math tools designed to enhance their curriculum materials, but they can be valuable resources for any math classroom. These tools aim to promote deeper understanding, engagement, and accessibility in mathematics.
Open Up Resources (OUR) Math Tools:
- 120 Number Board
- Base Ten Blocks
- Ten Frames
- Two-Color Counters
- Unifix Cubes
- Color Tiles
- Number Lines
- Fraction Tiles & Number Line
- Pattern Blocks
- Number Cubes
- Spinners
- Geoboard
- Algebra Tiles
- Prime Factor Tiles
- Math Balance
- Place Value Disks
- Number Line: Explore number sense, operations, and fractions with an interactive number line.
- Fraction Bars: Visualize and compare fractions, find equivalent fractions, and perform operations.
- Geometry Tool: Construct and manipulate geometric shapes, explore angles and measurements, and investigate geometric relationships.
If you’re looking to enhance your math instruction with high-quality digital tools, Open Up Resources offers a valuable collection of resources worth exploring.
Other Tools
- Mathbots Virtual Manipulatives
- Illuminations Interactives
- Polypad Virtual Manipulatives
- Desmos Geometry Tool
- Desmos Graphing Calculator
- Desmos Scientific Calculator
- Desmos Four-Function Calculator
- Desmos Matrix Calculator
- Desmos 3D Calculator
- Interactive Number Chart
- Fraction Matcher
- PHET Math Simulations
- Didax Virtual Manipulatives
- Toy Theatre Virtual Manipulatives
Why Should You Use Online Math Tools to Teach Middle School Math?
- Interactive Learning: These tools engage students through interactive features, making math concepts more accessible and enjoyable. This hands-on approach can enhance understanding and retention.
- Visual Representation: Many online manipulatives provide visual aids that help students grasp abstract concepts. Visualizing problems can make it easier to understand relationships and operations.
- Immediate Feedback: Online tools often offer instant feedback, allowing students to identify and correct mistakes in real time. This helps reinforce learning and builds confidence.
- Differentiation: Online resources can cater to diverse learning styles and levels, allowing teachers to tailor instruction to meet individual needs. Students can progress at their own pace, which is particularly useful in a middle school setting where abilities may vary widely.
- Accessibility: Students can access these tools anytime and anywhere, facilitating learning outside the classroom. This flexibility can support homework, practice, and revision.
- Engagement and Motivation: Gamified elements and interactive challenges can motivate students to participate more actively in their learning, making math more appealing.
- Collaboration: Many online platforms allow for collaborative activities, enabling students to work together, share strategies, and learn from one another.
- Real-World Applications: Some tools incorporate real-life scenarios and problem-solving, helping students see the relevance of math in everyday life.
- Low-Cost: Compare to buying Manipulatives for a whole class and online Tools almost always come out ahead. Especially since most are free!
- No Mess: Shhhh….this is probably my favorite. Nothing to get out, nothing to put away, nothing to inventory, nothing to organize. This saves so much instructional and planning time.
Overall, online math tools and manipulatives enhance the learning experience by providing diverse, engaging, and effective ways to teach essential math concepts in middle school.