Reflect on the above statement and in an essay of approximately 1 000 words(approximately 3 pages), critically explore your understanding of physical andvirtual manipulatives (not games or apps)....

Reflect on the above statement and in an essay of approximately 1 000 words (approximately 3 pages), critically explore your understanding of physical and virtual manipulatives (not games or apps). Your response should be guided by meaningful reference to research, and your own insight and perspective on whether or not they are both equally effective for developing big ideas and mathematical concepts in the Foundation Phase. Your response should include the following:  A clear definition of physical manipulatives and virtual manipulatives by investigating the similarities and differences.  A discussion on the importance of manipulatives with insightful links to relevant theories of learning.  An evaluation into the effectiveness of each type of manipulative in the teaching and learning of mathematics. You may want to consider principles from learning theorists such as Piaget, Bruner and Skemp who outline the progression of concept development linked to manipulatives.  Evidence of your understanding of the links between theory and practice by including examples of activities that involve the use of physical and virtual manipulatives in the teaching and learning of Foundation Phase mathematics.  Incorporate 1 content area from the Grade 3 CAPS document for Foundation Phase Mathematics and state the use of physical and virtual manipulatives within a small group lesson (this is not a lesson plan, describe this within 1 to 2 paragraphs).