When Should You Introduce Ten Thousands Base Ten Blocks?

In many areas of maths, Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) is a relatively simple model to follow. However, in place value, it's essential to note that not all concrete models are created equally. This is why we must consider further when introducing ten thousands base ten blocks to our students.

While CRA is widely used and supported by research, it's crucial to understand the sequence and how to effectively implement it. The CRA instructional sequence suggests that we should introduce a concept by providing a concrete model before moving onto representations and finally abstract representations. This means that when teaching place value, we should start with manipulatives like base ten blocks.

Base ten blocks are widely used in maths education and are particularly useful when working on the Make/Represent aspect of place value. In fact, they're often the first answer teachers think of when considering place value resources. I always recommend using base ten blocks when teaching make and represent, as they provide a concrete representation that students can relate to.

So, when should you introduce ten thousands base ten blocks? The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors, including your teaching approach and the needs of your students. However, in general, introducing base ten blocks early on can be beneficial for students to develop their understanding of place value.

In conclusion, while there's no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should introduce ten thousands base ten blocks, it's essential to consider the CRA sequence and how best to use manipulatives like base ten blocks in your maths lessons. By doing so, you'll be providing your students with a solid foundation for understanding place value.

Ten thousands base ten blocks