The activities using interlocking cubes and beads addressed several specific expectations that fall under the “Number Sense and Numeration” strand of the Kindergarten math curriculum. Our students:
• demonstrated an understanding of number relationships for numbers from 0 to 10;
• investigated and developed strategies for composing and decomposing quantities to 10 using manipulatives;
• investigated addition and subtraction through the use of manipulatives;
• recognized some quantities without having to count, using strategies such as composing or decomposing numbers, and by subitizing.
They also practiced fine motor skills when they used their fingers to connect and disconnect the interlocking cubes and to thread the beads onto the string. Excellent!