Teaching aid device and method of teaching

A device for instructing mathematics includes a work surface and a plurality of movable elements. Each of the movable elements includes, on a front surface thereof, at least a portion of a visible mathematical symbol (including numeric and nonnumeric symbols) thereon readable via eyesight. Each of the movable elements further includes an attachment member on a rearward surface to attach the element to the work surface. The attachment member preferably allows the element to be removed from the work surface and to be slidably positionable to any position on the work surface once attached thereto. The device can further include a frame around the work surface. Preferably, the frame defines a boundary for positioning of the movable elements. In one embodiment, magnetic attraction is used to maintain the attachment member in movable connection with the board.