Schools looking for a better way to teach K-6 math have found Brick Math: Teaching Math Using LEGO® Bricks.
Brick Math helps students learn the K-6 math curriculum by modeling with LEGO® bricks. Specific math subjects include: Counting, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Basic Fractions, Basic Measurement, Fraction Multiplication, Fraction Division, Decimals, and Advanced Measurement and Geometry. When students are taught with Brick Math, they develop a deeper understanding of the concepts that are the foundation of true mathematical knowledge.
Brick Math is a modular program, so schools can use it as a complete curriculum, or take any of the content areas to use for remediation, for intervention, or for gifted learners.
Read FAQs to learn more about Brick Math.
Brick Math helps students learn the K-6 math curriculum by modeling with LEGO® bricks. Specific math subjects include: Counting, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Basic Fractions, Basic Measurement, Fraction Multiplication, Fraction Division, Decimals, and Advanced Measurement and Geometry. When students are taught with Brick Math, they develop a deeper understanding of the concepts that are the foundation of true mathematical knowledge.
Brick Math is a modular program, so schools can use it as a complete curriculum, or take any of the content areas to use for remediation, for intervention, or for gifted learners.
Read FAQs to learn more about Brick Math.
Brick Math makes learning math fun!
VIDEO LESSONS
WHAT SCHOOLS USING BRICK MATH ARE SAYING ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
Brick Math is a versatile tool; it works well in a small group setting, one on one, and/or with partners. TONYA ROBBINS, 3RD GRADE TEACHER, REEDS ELEMENTARY, LEXINGTON, NC |
Our students love Brick Math. Teachers note the students' excitement and engagement in class. DEANA COLEY, ED. S., ASST. SUPERINTENDENT OF CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION, DAVIDSON COUNTY SCHOOLS, NC |
Brick Math provides students with the opportunity to "see" the math. TAMMY DE HART, LEAD TEACHER, WELCOME ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, LEXINGTON, NC |
RESEARCH-BASED
Brick Math is based on theories of Constructionism and brain research. Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of teaching math using manipulatives to incorporate a hands-on style. Brick Math builds on this body of research by utilizing LEGO® bricks as the manipulative, adding elements of creativity and enjoyment to learning foundational mathematics.
EASY TO teach. EASY TO learn.
Use the lessons in the Teacher Edition for any math subject. Start by taking students through the Part 1: Show Them How section of each chapter. Build the brick models, show them to the students, and ask students questions as directed. Be sure to use the math vocabulary for each lesson.
Have students build the same models themselves so they are manipulating the bricks as you are guiding them. If possible, use a document camera to display your models as you build them.
Then have students draw their models and answer the questions in their companion Student Editions.
Once students have mastered the modeling processes from Part 1, move to the Part 2: Show What You Know section of the chapter. Ask students to complete each of the problems, first by modeling with bricks and then drawing their models in the companion Student Edition.
Then have students draw their models and answer the questions in their companion Student Editions.
Once students have mastered the modeling processes from Part 1, move to the Part 2: Show What You Know section of the chapter. Ask students to complete each of the problems, first by modeling with bricks and then drawing their models in the companion Student Edition.
Move through the room, checking that students are building their models correctly and that they understand the concepts behind the models.
TRACKING AND ASSESSMENT
The Student Editions include an Assessment for every chapter, a chart to track each student's progress, and additional problems for practice and challenge.
Brick sets
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Brick Math brick sets, specially designed for the program, are packaged in sturdy divided storage boxes and can be shared by two students. Two baseplates are included with each Brick Math brick set.
Each chapter lists the bricks suggested for the lessons in that chapter for every two students. Each book includes a total brick inventory that lists all the bricks suggested for the program for every two students. |
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT tips
- Before starting, have a conversation with the students about using bricks as a learning tool rather than a toy.
- Teach students the language of bricks (baseplate, stud, 1x1, 1x2, etc.).
- Assign brick sets to specific students by number and always give the same students the same sets. This helps keep students from taking home or misplacing bricks. If they know they will always have to work with the same brick set, they are more likely to be careful with their set.
- Do not teach with bricks—or any manipulative—every day. Students also need to think through the math processes without a physical model.
- To keep bricks clean, put them in a hosiery bag and wash on the top rack of the dishwasher. Let them air dry.
- To keep bricks from sliding off desks, use foam shelf liner cut into rectangular sections or large meat trays (you can often get these free from a local supermarket).
- Active learning breeds active learners! Students will be motivated and engaged in math when they are using bricks. It will not be quieter in your classroom, but it will be full of chatter about math!