The development of primary school children's mathematical thinking through the use of Cuisenaire rods

Abstract

This study focuses on the multi-functional use of the Cuisenaire Rods, in particular to see how they can affect children's mathematical thinking. In this study, eight activities, that addressed the topics of addition, subtraction, decompositions and pattern, algebra and fractions, were created and conducted by the researcher with four Year 4 pupils. The children were grouped in pairs and each pair spent two 1 hour sessions working on the activities. Video recordings and photos were taken for the purpose of analysis. The Cuisenaire Rods proved to be effective in encouraging mathematical thinking and thus, it was concluded that it may be beneficial for teachers to incorporate them in their everyday mathematics lessons.