When there is a first combination … you will find a second combination.

I been thinking that these combinations are ideal ways to introduce a child in primary to various terminologies, words, language. One can apply terminologies found in algebra, explain the concept of variables with the pictures you see on the board. In that case the word sum could be brought to the child’s attention, that this word is linked to an addition, introducing the word quotient and product. For visual children this can be a good tool to give them these words. By experience a 10,  11 and 12 year old can by times struggle with word problems hence to a non-understanding of the terminologies they have in front of them.

These important words are often neglected because of the drive of having the right result or answer.

Of course there are millions of ways to give ‘the words’ to a student, yet within the Montessori material is so much that can be used for things, topics, facts and ideas but one doesn’t dare to do.

Another example…

I can explain (within the chapter of equations) what it means to maintain balance. It is visual, clear and attractive. ‘whatever is done on one side of the equal sign must also be done on the other side’;This board could be my introduction. Later one also can use a scale to let the children explore.

I will continue my investigation of the vabulous variety within the Montessori material, wher and how to apply the given in different topics of mathematics.

Chris