Certify Teacher Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Incorporating concrete representations is an effective method for enhancing students' understanding of subtraction because it allows children to physically manipulate objects while learning the concept. This hands-on approach can make abstract ideas more tangible, facilitating comprehension. For instance, using items like blocks, counters, or everyday objects enables students to visually and physically see the process of taking away, which reinforces their understanding of the operation.

Concrete representations help bridge the gap between physical manipulation and abstract thinking. When students can see the subtraction process in action, they are more likely to grasp the concept deeply and retain that understanding as they transition to more abstract representations later on, such as symbols and numbers. This method aligns with developmental principles of learning, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning in early education.