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How to Link Cubes in Math

Link cubes are math manipulatives for young children to learn about numbers in a hands-on activity. According to The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Principles and Standards for School Mathematics, manipulatives are important tools for children to visually understand mathematics. Math link cubes are numbered cubes which come in different colors and attach to each other in a rod for easy computation and counting. Designed for elementary aged children, link cubes work well for all children who need to hold and count numbers in a tactile manner. You can even use the link cubes for math concepts like adding fractions.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 sets of math link cubes
  • Chalkboard
  • Chalk
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pass out the link cubes to the students. Be sure they have two sets in two different colors. These will represent fractions, which are equal parts of a whole number.

    • 2

      Break off five math link cubes. Four should be in one color and one should be another color. Explain to the students that all five cubes represent a whole number and the denominator. The four link cubes that are the same color represent the part of the whole number, or the numerator.

    • 3

      Write on a chalkboard the first fraction made with the cubes, or 4/5. The denominator is on the bottom, while the numerator is on the top of the fraction. There are four parts of the whole number 5.

    • 4

      Point to the single cube that is another color. This cube would represent 1/4; write it on the chalkboard next to the first fraction, 4/5.

    • 5

      Ask the students to add the two fractions together, 4/5 plus 1/5. Ask students what the result would be. Link the different colored cube with the others. Ask students what the answer would be. It would equal 5/5, which is a whole number.

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