Written by Valerie Wangnet, CONNETIX.
Some concepts are difficult for young learners to grasp when they only exist as words, numbers or diagrams on a page. With CONNETIX, children can build, test and manipulate ideas – transforming abstract concepts into tangible learning experiences and allowing curiosity to take over.
Here are three simple ways educators can make maths and STEAM learning more visible, collaborative and engaging for young learners with high-quality, open-ended construction products like CONNETIX.
1. ‘Build’ the maths
Fractions, symmetry, measurement, patterns and geometry become easier to explore when learners can physically construct and compare them.
Invite students to combine shapes, investigate tessellations, model fractions or create symmetrical designs. As they manipulate shapes, test possibilities and explain their thinking, they can develop conceptual understanding alongside mathematical language and confidence.
The CONNETIX Education Mathematics Set has been curated for exactly this kind of exploration, with an extensive variety of magnetic tile shapes, teacher notes and resource cards that help educators turn hands-on play into purposeful mathematical learning.
2. Turn questions into STEAM challenges
A powerful STEAM activity can begin with a simple question, like:
- How tall can you build before the structure becomes unstable?
- How could you make it stronger?
- Can you design something that moves, or solve the same problem in a completely different way?
Open-ended construction gives students permission to experiment, encounter setbacks and refine their ideas. In the process, they explore concepts across science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics while also developing creativity, communication and collaboration.
Designed for flexible classroom use, the CONNETIX Education STEAM Set supports investigations into areas such as force, stability, symmetry, light and design. Its teacher notes, resource cards and build prompts offer practical starting points without limiting where students can take their learning.
3. Let students test, fail and redesign
Engineering comes alive when learners can see the immediate result of a design decision.
Ball-run challenges are an engaging way to investigate gravity, motion, speed, angles and directional change. Students can predict what will happen, test their design and make adjustments, discovering that a first attempt doesn’t need to be the final answer.
The CONNETIX Education Engineering Set brings together magnetic tiles, clear fluted tubes, release gates and wooden balls for collaborative design challenges. Guided builds offer an accessible starting point, while open-ended components allow students to create, test and refine increasingly complex solutions.
See hands-on learning in action.
CONNETIX will be exhibiting at the National Education Summit, with their new Education Mathematics, STEAM and Engineering Sets on display.
Visit Stand E10 to explore the sets, discover ideas for your learning environment and see how open-ended construction can support meaningful, curriculum-connected learning, or reach out to the team directly for more information at sales@connetixtiles.com.
CONNETIX is also proud to be the event’s satchel sponsor. Every attendee will receive an Education Sample Pack in their CONNETIX tote bag upon arrival, giving you a hands-on introduction before you even reach the stand.