# Full text and tactile builds for the Year 5 A4 aids

These are full equivalents to the original [partial-products mat](partial-products-mat.svg) and [estimate–exact–decision mat](estimate-exact-decision.svg), not image-only labels. Use linear text, large print, school-prepared Braille, AAC, speech, or a raised-line/tactile layout. Colours are never the only cue. Check the final format with the learner; do not infer mathematical understanding from fine-motor speed.

## Partial-products mat · linear reading order

Title: **Partial products: tens + ones**. Model: `128 × 23 = 128 × (20 + 3)`.

**Worked model:** Twenty groups: `128 × 20 = 2 560`. Three groups: `128 × 3 = 384`. Together: `2 560 + 384 = 2 944`. Scale check: `128 × 20` alone is `2 560`, so an exact answer below it is impossible when adding three positive groups.

**New problem fields, in order:** (1) My new problem [blank]. (2) Tens groups, such as ×10, ×20 or ×30 [two blank lines]. (3) Ones groups [two blank lines]. (4) Combine equal units [blank]. (5) Does the result fit my estimate? [blank]. Final prompt: “Say why a zero in the tens row has place value.”

**Tactile build:** Put a thick cord down the centre of a tray as a divider. On the left, a card labelled **TENS GROUPS** with a raised `×20`; on the right, **ONES GROUPS** with `×3`. Use separate numbered cards `2 560` and `384`, then move both under a tactile **SUM** label to form `2 944`. Put a third **ESTIMATE** card before the sum. The teacher reads labels aloud or uses school-approved Braille. A child may direct a partner to move pieces. The spatial format is optional; the number/value relationship is the target.

## Estimate–exact–decide mat · linear reading order

Title: **Estimate → exact → decide**. Instruction: “Use the given unit and constraint. Do not guess missing facts.” Four numbered boxes each have two blank response lines.

1. **QUESTION + COMMON UNIT:** What is being counted or priced? [blank].
2. **REASONABLE BENCHMARK:** Round and say whether the estimate is high or low. [blank].
3. **EXACT PRODUCT:** Show partial products or another clear method. [blank].
4. **LIMIT + DECISION:** Compare in the same unit. What remains unknown? [blank].

Footer reminder: “A calculator answer still needs a scale and context check.”

**Tactile build:** Line up four shallow trays or textured rectangles with raised numerals/word labels **1 QUESTION**, **2 ESTIMATE**, **3 EXACT**, **4 DECISION**. Place unit tokens (cards, dollars, packs) beside tray 1 and repeat the same unit on tray 4. A child moves number/equation cards through the row, leaving both estimate and exact visible for comparison. Provide an equally usable verbal/AAC list for anyone who does not use touch or sight. No device, printing or purchase is necessary.

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