Apparatus and method for teaching concepts of mathematics

摘要

A system for teaching the basic concepts of mathematics utilizing a ball or the like having situated thereon certain mathematical problems and solutions, each such problem having framed thereabout certain colored geometric symbols, the symbols indicating certain commonalities in the problem. The ball of the present invention is to be utilized in organized or unorganized play, and is configured in such a manner as to relay to the user certain basic themes associated with mathematics, including (but not limited to) addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The preferred embodiment of the present invention teaches a generally spherical ball having multiple diverse geometric configurations, each like configuration having a common mathematical type of problem thereon, as well as a common color. In the preferred embodiment, the configurations could be situated randomly across the surface of the ball, or could be arranged along the longitudinal and/or latitudinal axis of the ball. In play, the user would, for example, bounce the ball, or otherwise cause randomized movement of the surface of the ball, catch or retrieve the ball, and lift the ball in to view, focusing on the geometric configuration within the nearest view of the user, and recite the problem to himself/herself; in the alternative, the user could recite the problem out loud to a playmate, withholding the answer so that the playmate can attempt to answer same. The geometric configurations could be raised on the ball to increase randomization during bouncing, while providing a tactile surface to stimulate the user.