The Hands-On Method in Mathematics with Students Aged Ten to Fourteen
Lara Albanese, associazione googol Parma (Italy)
Abstract
Do math with an experimental fun and engaging method, is also possible after the primary school. The mathematical games have always intrigued people of all ages and are not only for small children. The author will report experiences both in extracurricular situations and in classroom settings with students from ten to fourteen. Some games, experiments and exercises are described in detail The idea behind this work is that the same problem can be addressed with different strategies favoring the understanding of all students in the class, including those with learning difficulties. Connection with real life and the beauty of mathematical game can make this discipline really fascinating.. Our approach provides a visual math that does not require too many digits and uses them only when they are really needed. Use of this method brings great involvement in the class, breaks down language and cultural barriers, stimulate students' thinking. In mathematics above all exists the thought, action, reality and only then the theoretical work, the written word, the purpose of explanation. This approach leads students to pass very well the tests provided by the national curriculum.