Geoboard app is a free iPad app providing an electronic method of producing geometrical designs on a 25 or 150 peg Geoboard. With 8 different colored bands, a wide variety of geometric models and levels of math instruction can be presented. Developed by Math Learning Center, it is described as ” a tool for exploring a variety of mathematical topics introduced in the elementary and middle grades. Learners stretch bands around the pegs to form line segments and polygons and make discoveries about perimeter, area, angles, congruence, fractions, and more.”

Sound familiar? Yes the same old Geoboard used for years only in an electronic format. Here is what each board looks like:

As an OT, my preference with Geoboards is the actual pegged board and rubber bands requiring haptic, graded fine motor control and bilateral skills along with visual perceptual abilities provided the possibilities of multiple layers of intervention. Use of an electronic Geoboard, however also has its advantages for learning mathematic principles or when just working on visual perceptual concepts. Presenting the Geoboard as an alternative to the real board certainly can be done easily when physical materials aren’t present or the electronic app is a motivator for engagement.

Try Geoboard app out and share how you might use it with your students.

Carol