Little Monkey Apps MAB Subtraction builds on the previous Apps, Little Monkey Apps MAB Addition and Little Monkey Apps MAB. This App compliments the use of hands on experiences for modelling subtraction problems using MAB blocks in instances when using real blocks is not practical.
=Teaching Module=
Contains place value chart, units, longs, flats and blocks, basket for trading and regrouping, random number generator, counter and camera feature. This module is for teachers to create their own learning experiences or for students to use when solving written problems, instead of using real wooden MAB. Students place 'ten' objects in the basket to 'make' or one object to 'break'. 'Make' label appears when ten objects have been placed in the basket and 'Break' label when one object is placed in the basket.
=Learn to rename=
This game addresses the need to teach and learn how to rename blocks. That is, 2 tens and 3 ones (23) is equal to 1 ten and 13 ones (also 23!) This skill is important in knowing why renaming can be used, rather than just knowing the how of renaming. Blocks are set out on the floor, each question will dictate what type of renaming is to be completed. Use the basket to rename, then place the blocks on the place value chart. Place check to answer. If you want to be shown how to rename, press the show me button for a demonstration.
=Subtraction no renaming=
Use the MAB blocks to complete the subtraction problem, placing the higher number on the place value chart and moving away the blocks to the bottom section of the place value chart, counting what remains, then typing the answer on the keypad. Levels of difficulty can be changed the up and down arrow buttons. No regrouping required in this activity as a precursor to the following task.
=Subtraction with renaming=
Use the MAB blocks to complete the subtraction problem, placing the higher number on the place value chart, moving blocks to subtract the lower value, use the basket to change blocks to rename to the required place value, then type the answer on the keypad. Levels of difficulty can be changed the up and down arrow buttons. Task appears similar to previous challenge but with renaming in all levels.
I just bought the addition and subtraction app. I'm going to start teaching borrowing this week and this will be a really nice visual for my students. I've been sitting playing with the app for a few minutes now and a few things I think would make this app even better would be... 1. If you drag a one cube into tens or hundreds spot on the grid it should reject the move 2. When the longs and hundreds split into ones cubes, it would be nice if they spread out instead of splitting on top of each other.
With that said, I'm excited to use the app this week!
