About

• Base ten blocks are mathematical manipulatives with three primary components. The first component is the single cube or square, of which there are nine. These small blocks represent the ones column of a mathematical figure. The second component is a row made of ten cubes or squares joined together. There are also nine of these, and each represents the tens column in a figure. Finally, there is a cube made up of 100 small cubes, or 10 rows of cubes, which represents the hundreds column. For instance, the number 234 would be represented by two large hundreds cubes, three small tens rows and four single ones blocks.
  
  

Materials

• Base ten blocks are available as three- and two-dimensional objects, as well as virtually. Three-dimensional base ten blocks are generally made of a raw wood or plastic. Some types of three-dimensional base ten blocks are made with pegs so they can attach to one another, allowing students to build their own rows and large cubes. Two-dimensional blocks are available in worksheet form, which students can then cut out or color according to mathematical exercises. Additionally, there are computer programs and Internet websites that provide free interactive base ten blocks and activities for students and teachers.
  
  

Activities

• Base ten blocks can be used for beginner and advanced learning, as the blocks can represent both whole numbers and fractions or decimals. For instance, children learning counting in early elementary programs can use the blocks to count on and understand the relationship of the numbers in a base ten system. The blocks can also be used to help compute basic addition and subtraction problems. More advanced learners can use the blocks to add and subtract fractions and decimals, while visualizing the representation of the fraction to the whole.
  
  

Benefits

• Base ten blocks, like most mathematical manipulatives, help children understand mathematical concepts by making abstract concepts physical. Using base ten blocks for early elementary education helps children quickly develop counting skills, providing a strong foundation for advanced mathematics. Additionally, using base ten blocks and other math manipulatives helps students develop problem-solving skills and promotes working in groups, which can be beneficial in all areas of study.