Virtual manipulatives for mathematics

Virtual manipulatives for mathematics are digital representations of concrete mathematics manipulatives. These virtual manipulatives are based on the physical manipulatives used in classrooms. They are generally used to introduce mathematical concepts using visuals and are used for teaching students new topics that may be more difficult to explain in other ways.

Common manipulatives include base ten blocks, coins, 3D blocks, tangrams, rulers, fraction bars, algebra tiles, geoboards, geometric planes, and solid figures.

Use in special education
Virtual math manipulatives are sometimes included in the general academic curriculum as assistive technology for students with physical or mental disabilities. Students can still be included in activities using virtual manipulatives if they can not engage in physical activity. Virtual math manipulatives also do no require any form of physical transportation and as a consequence are sometimes used to assist in helping students who are unable to attend school regularly because of poor health or other difficulties.