Hands-On Problem Solving
Mathematics · Mathematical Thinking · meta
Select and use familiar tools (concrete objects, fingers, ten frames) to help solve a mathematical problem
What mastery looks like
- Choose cubes, counters, or fingers to help solve an addition or subtraction problem
- Use a ten frame to organise objects for counting or comparing
- Explain why a particular tool (e.g. cubes rather than fingers) was chosen for a given problem
Check your understanding
When Hands-On Problem Solving is working out a maths problem, do they reach for helpful tools — like using their fingers, counters, or a number line — to support their thinking?
Prerequisites
Helpful