Customer Reviews

Math, Manipulatives & Magic Wands: Manipulatives, Literature Ideas, and Hands-On Math Activities for the K-5 Classroom

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I really wanted to like this book. From the description it sounded just like what I was looking for. But when I received it, I was really disappointed. I am a classroom teacher, and was looking for some new math centers to do with my students. I think this book would be better for a math club, or working with a small group of students. I say this because many of the activities include materials that teachers would have to go out and buy-- velcro dots, magnets trips, beads, clay, CD cases-- and then prepare. This could easily turn into a daunting task for 25+ students. Plus, I didn't feel the pay off (learining) of the activity was worth the time it would take, in many cases.

Aside from the activities themselves, the book looks like it was made on a home-computer. The font used for the titles is really annoying to look at.

If you are a non-teacher leading a math group, this book might give you some cute ideas. But if you are a teacher, you've probably seen most of these ideas already. Maybe some of the other books from these ladies are better, but my advice is to pass on this one. While their hearts are in the right place with hands-on math activities, there are better books out there.

I bought this book because I own two other Bag Ladies books. This book has not disappointed me. I have incorporated these projects into my math lessons which has helped bring math to life for all of my students. The use of these simple manipulatives has brought a greater understanding to my lessons and has provided that needed element of hands-on for my students. They now look forward to taking out their hand-made projects to do a lesson. Math is now fun in my classroom. Thanks to the Bag Ladies for their simple and innovative projects. The materials are easy to get - especially if you send home a wish list to your parents. I like the idea of recycling materials from home rather than going out and buying everything. It helps to teach my students how to stay "Green". I recommend this resource to all teachers whether they have small groups or entire classes - you won't be disappointed.

I love this book and my students love the projects! It is easy to use with pictures that show the visual outcome. You know which NCTM standards are being addressed too. There are lots of reproducible sheets to help teachers and parents. Its packed with creative ideas to make teaching math easy!

Memory Tips for Math, Memorization and Learning Styles: The Successful Way to Teach K-5 Math