Resources designed to aid in understanding place value, specifically representing numbers using groups of ten and individual units, serve as foundational tools in early mathematics education. These resources typically involve visual representations, such as base-ten blocks or pictorial models, to illustrate how numbers are composed of tens and ones. For instance, the number 37 would be shown as three groups of ten and seven individual units.
Such materials are beneficial for developing number sense and a concrete understanding of the decimal system. Historically, manipulative aids like these have been instrumental in helping children move from counting by ones to grasping more abstract mathematical concepts. This approach strengthens the foundation for subsequent learning in addition, subtraction, and more complex arithmetic operations.
The subsequent sections will delve into the variety of available resources, their applications in diverse learning environments, and considerations for selecting the most appropriate learning materials for specific educational needs.
