Numicon maths shapes and numeracy teaching resources grew out of a classroom based research project funded by the Teacher Training Agency carried out between 1996 and 1998 by Numicon authors Ruth Atkinson, Romey Tacon and Dr Tony Wing. They sought to discover why it was that so many children failed in arithmetic where they were successful in all other curriculum areas. They wanted to find out whether using visual structured imagery would support children’s arithmetic understanding. Through the research a program of teaching activities was devised using Numicon maths shapes in a multi-sensory way that would be easily followed by teachers and make mathematics fun for learners. This program has formed the basis of the Numicon teaching program.
Learning about numbers with patterns- using structured visual imagery (Numicon) to teach arithmetic
Gathering Evidence for Numicon
What Works for Children with Mathematical Difficulties? The effectiveness of intervention schemes
Teachers and parents from all over the world have been sharing the fun and successful ways they have been making the most of the Numicon multi-sensory approach, both at home and in school. Have a look at the links below for inspiration and ideas.
Here is an 'accidental' idea from a parent, showing the playful ways that Numicon can be introduced with Early Years pupils...
A quicker version of Snakes and Ladders. A great way to reinforce addition and subtraction and get to grips to teen numbers... AND lots of fun!
Counting with Numicon down the stairs
Here are a couple of great ideas sent in by a parent. The child in question has down syndrome, we think the explanation for the acrylic inset puzzle is very interesting....
Baking with Numicon in Iceland
This came though from one of our accredited trainers in Iceland. You can see from the images that this would be a lot of fun! why not give it a go at home or in school...
