Manipulative Disadvantages

The first virtual math manipulative I would like to discuss is the virtual base ten blocks. Base ten blocks are a very versatile manipulative and can be used with many math concepts. The biggest advantage the virtual base ten blocks have over the physical base ten blocks is that the virtual ones require no storage space in the classroom. The second advantages is those with less dexterity can manipulate the virtual base ten blocks easier than the physical base ten blocks. However, a major drawback or disadvantage of the virtual base ten blocks is if the technology isn’t working you can’t access the manipulative. The last disadvantage to virtual base ten blocks comes with those students who learn more with hands on manipulatives. Some students just need the physical manipulative so they can hold and manipulate it …show more content…
Virtual clocks are a great way to teach students how to tell time. They are easy to manipulate with a click of the mouse and allow access digital and analog clocks with a click of the mouse. Virtual clocks are great because they don’t take up all the storage space as many physical clock manipulatives would in the classroom. Again one of the major disadvantages is if the technology for this manipulative is malfunctioning then you can’t use it. The last disadvantage of virtual clocks are that the students can’t physical touch and manipulate them. The third virtual math manipulative is virtual money. Virtual money teaching students the concepts of money, but without the hassle of storing it. Virtual money is easily accessible and easy to manipulate. There are many website that have virtual money and virtual stores for the students to practice counting and using virtual money. Again if the technology is not working the virtual manipulative is inaccessible and you can use it. Also, many students need hands on manipulative to see how big the coins are and how the look close