What would math class look like without any numbers? Very productive, actually. While not a substitute for a full math curriculum, no-numbers-allowed-math can help build understanding at the conceptual level while tearing down some of the common barriers to student learning.
The images below help students develop the concept of the substitution method for solving systems of linear equations, as they work to find out what color of paint is in each can.
Scaffolding and engagement are both increased when paired with a short anticipatory set, like this Sesame Street video from the band OK Go: