<![CDATA[This study aims to review the use of concrete media in improving elementary school students’ understanding of addition and subtraction concepts. The review is based on several accredited studies showing that concrete media such as real objects, counting blocks, number cards, and other manipulatives play an important role in helping students understand abstract mathematical concepts. The literature indicates that concrete media consistently improves learning outcomes, student participation, and mastery levels in basic arithmetic instruction. Conceptually, these findings are aligned with Piaget’s cognitive development theory, Bruner’s enactive representation, and Vygotsky’s meaningful learning principles, which emphasize the importance of direct experience in concept construction. However, most of the reviewed studies still use classroom action research designs with limited sample sizes, indicating the need for more rigorous experimental studies. Therefore, concrete media can be considered an effective instructional alternative to strengthen elementary students’ understanding of addition and subtraction concepts.]]>
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