Math Reimagined: Marilyn Zecher's Multisensory Mastery
Introduction
Mathematics is a fundamental subject that is embedded in everyday life (think: estimating time, calculating, remembering a phone number) yet many adults admit they have struggled with math. Moreover, the language of math continuously changes; we no longer use the terms “borrow” and “carry” when adding and subtracting, now we say “regroup”. Unfortunately, many children and adults have become “instructional casualties”; it’s not that they can’t learn the concepts, it’s that they haven’t been taught them effectively. Scientific evidence suggests that even before children learn to speak, they identify quantities without counting, a term we call subitizing. This encourages the theory that the problem isn’t the learning but instead a lack of effective instruction.
At Your Learning Toolbox, we believe in empowering every student to succeed in their math endeavors by providing tailored instruction to meet their individual needs. One remarkable tool we advocate for is Marilyn Zecher's Multisensory Math—a transformative instructional approach that can revolutionize how children learn and engage with math.
In this blog post, we're thrilled to introduce you to this approach and highlight how multisensory math can be an invaluable resource to assist children in building a strong foundation in math. We will provide an overview of the instructional approach as well as resources to add to your toolbox today!
What is Multisensory Math?
By integrating Orton-Gillingham multisensory strategies, this program aligns with current research and National Math Panel recommendations for struggling learners. Hands-on engagement with manipulatives is endorsed for all ages, enhancing concept retention and memory. This approach is crucial for LD students and those with conceptual gaps, but is beneficial for all learners. Marilyn Zecher is an instructor and presenter with over 20 years of experience in the educational field. Her revolutionary approach that applies OG strategies to mathematical concepts is grounded in science and has proven to be effective for a variety of learners.
If you are a parent, educator, learner, or any service provider working with children who have learning disabilities, this approach is for you! The structured, sequenced, and systematic approach to teaching math in a multisensory manner intuitively makes sense. Not only is it effective, but it is easy to apply to any setting: classroom, tutoring 1:1, at home, and more. Below are some key concepts and resources of Multisensory Math.
1. Numeracy and Subitizing: The Superpowers of Math
Subitizing, recognizing quantities instantly, is a superpower in the world of math. It's like recognizing words at a glance—a key principle in early literacy learning akin to the Orton Gillingham approach.
Much like how the Science of Reading approach emphasizes understanding phonemes, Multisensory Math emphasizes pattern recognition and subitizing—essential skills for a strong foundation in math.
2. Early Math and Language: Crafting a Mathematical Foundation
Imagine using craft sticks and tangible objects to build a strong foundation in early math. This hands-on approach aligns with the tactile and kinesthetic elements of the Orton Gillingham approach, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of fundamental concepts.
The multisensory method emphasizes experiencing math in a meaningful and sensory-rich manner, similar to the multisensory approach to phonics in the Science of Reading.
3. Building the Place Value System: Critically Important for Number Sense
Students must be able to feel and build the place value system in order to understand what the quantities represent numerically. Using base ten blocks simply isn’t enough for students to truly grasp the quantities of numbers. Multisensory Math proposes building the place value system by bundling colored craft sticks in tallies for groups of 5, bundles of 10, 100, 1,000 and so on! The repeated practice of bundling and looking for patterns as the system is built will help students develop a deep understanding of the quantities these numerals represent as well as how they work together quantitatively.
4. Fluency and Multiplication: Building Skills with Multisensory Magic
The challenge of fluency in mathematics, especially for children with dyslexia, is akin to reading fluency addressed in the Orton Gillingham approach.
Just as the Science of Reading focuses on explicit instruction and decoding skills, Multisensory Math promotes clarity and mastery, aiding in mathematical fluency.
5. Fraction Understanding: A Key to Mathematical Mastery
Understanding fractions systematically, much like phonemic awareness in the Orton Gillingham approach, is vital for mathematical proficiency.
Just as the Science of Reading emphasizes understanding the structure of language, Multisensory Math underscores understanding the structure and composition of numbers and fractions.
Building Solid Foundations at Home with Marilyn Zecher's Free Course: Supporting Broad Concepts at Home
To support your child's math journey and help them build a strong foundation, we encourage you to explore Marilyn Zecher's free course, Supporting Broad Concepts at Home. This course equips parents and tutors with valuable insights and techniques to make math engaging, enjoyable, and effective for children. While this course only touches on the surface of the approach, it equips viewers with actionable items and background knowledge to begin applying the techniques at home right away.
By incorporating the Multisensory Math & More approach into your child's learning environment, you can bridge the gap between traditional math instruction and a more immersive, interactive learning experience. It's about providing children with the tools they need to succeed and fostering a love for math that will last a lifetime.
Join us in this exciting journey of math exploration and empowerment! Together, let's unlock the boundless potential of our children and nurture a generation of confident, capable mathematicians. Our tutors utilize Multisensory Math techniques and approaches to support your child’s math skills by making them more confident learners equipped with lifelong tools for success. If you have any questions about Multisensory Math and our approach, please feel free to reach out! Happy learning!
