Mathematical manipulatives such as Algebra tiles allow students to practice algebraic thinking. These tiles have been proven to provide concrete models that can help students develop concepts related to integers, algebraic expressions, equations, and polynomials.
For students new to solving equations, solving for x is abstract. In elementary school, we use number lines to understand integers. Similarly, algebra tiles make solving equations, combining like terms, or factoring polynomials a visual and more kinesthetic process. This virtual option from @DidaxEducation allows you to use Algebra tiles regardless of where the student may be, provided they have access to the internet. Some teachers actually prefer the virtual tiles to having plastic pieces or cardstock bits that need to be managed, organized, and cleaned after each use. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics @NCTM also has a virtual option with a little more explanation on how to use them and this emulator also works on tablets and has four modes: Solve, Substitute, Expand, or Factor.
If you want to know more about how to use them, we are including this handy video from @NCTM
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