Thinking Blocks is a suite of learning tools designed to help students solve math word problems accurately and efficiently. Using brightly colored blocks, students model mathematical relationships and identify known and unknown quantities. The model provides students with a powerful image that organizes information and simplifies the problem solving process. By modeling increasingly complex word problems, students develop strong reasoning skills which will facilitate the transition from arithmetic to algebra.
New Features
tutorials are more student driven; students determine the placement of labels and blocks
numbers and question marks are draggable components and text input has been eliminated
blocks and other components are significantly larger and more robust
new modeling tutorial introduces students to word problems with fractions
students are shown ways to accurately size blocks in the addition and subtraction module
tutorial programs include a calculator enabling students to focus on conceptual understanding
full screen option makes Thinking Blocks compatible with interactive whiteboards
improved modeling tool includes hundreds of word problems in six major areas of math
self-checking feature encourages students to compare their models to those dynamically generated by the program
