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Algebra tiles can help students of all learning styles understand mathematical concepts by providing concrete representations of abstract algebraic ideas. The tiles allow students to physically manipulate expressions, helping them connect personally with the concepts through both visual and tactile experiences. Homemade tiles can be easily and inexpensively constructed from colored card stock using the provided template, with enough sets prepared for each student to have their own for manipulating problems.

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unay
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167 views

Introduction Page

Algebra tiles can help students of all learning styles understand mathematical concepts by providing concrete representations of abstract algebraic ideas. The tiles allow students to physically manipulate expressions, helping them connect personally with the concepts through both visual and tactile experiences. Homemade tiles can be easily and inexpensively constructed from colored card stock using the provided template, with enough sets prepared for each student to have their own for manipulating problems.

Uploaded by

unay
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Algebra tiles empower students of all learning styles to better understand mathematical concepts.

For
many students, abstract algebraic concepts are more easily grasped with the concrete representations
displayed by the tiles. In addition, the tactile nature of the tiles, allows students to connect on a personal
level with the concepts being discussed.

When I listen, I hear.


When I see, I remember.
When I do, I understand.

Description: Algebra tiles can be easily (and cheaply)


constructed. The tiles shown here were made from colored card stock
(3x5 card thickness). Using the given template, cut out enough tiles to
allow students to manipulate a range of problems.

The tile set in the picture includes: positive tiles (18 unit tiles in yellow, 8 x tiles in pink, 4 x tiles in
green) and negative tiles (18 unit tiles, 8 x tiles, 4 x tiles all in red).

There is no need to have different colors among the positive tiles. The positive tiles could all be of one
color. The negative tiles should, however, all be red. These tile sets are packaged in sandwich bags and
enough sets are prepared so that each student in the class has his/her own set. (I also produced an
"enlarged" tile set with magnets on the back for demonstrations at the chalkboard. Magnetic strips can be
found in any craft department. )

Many of the commercial versions of algebra tiles are made from plastic and possess a "projectile" quality.
I have found that the homemade tiles are seldom "airborne" since they are aerodynamically deficient. : )

Template: If your copy machine can process card stock paper, you can transfer the template directly
to the card stock. If not, you may need to measure and cut the tiles by hand.
(The template was modeled after a template appearing in CORD Applied Mathematics-Unit 23.)

*Hint: When making your tile sets, consider asking for assistance from other adults, retired persons,
younger children, and student helpers. My retired mother ("grandma") was most willing to assist in
making these manipulatives.

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