Conceptual Learning Materials

The math materials are appropriate for an age range spanning several years. Used with a slightly different emphasis at various stages in the child's development, they are valuable in introducing, strengthening, and enriching a wide range of concepts.

Sequence of Skill Introduction

The teacher's experience and the sequence of skills in the students' basic math program are the best guides in determining which skills should be introduced first. In general, the scope and sequence can be used as a guide. A number of sets for younger children are "color coded." Some teachers present all the levels with an exercise set, while others prefer to present all the blue (two-digit) exercises, progress to the pink (three-digit), and culminate with the green (four-digit). However, there is much overlap. In addition, students normally use the materials in parallel with their traditional text. Many teachers introduce a series with manipulatives, and students should certainly be encouraged to use manipulatives whenever the answer is not obvious. There is also great value in having the student repeat the exercise later in the year or even in subsequent years. When repeating the exercise, the student is ready to abstract the concepts. This transition from the concrete to the abstract is the ultimate goal of manipulatives and the discovery approach. Blackline extensions are the logical culmination of given units since they are the most abstract and most challenging.

Preparation of Materials

Each inventory item is packaged separately. In each package are suggestions for its use.

Lamination before cutting is recommended for material that may receive heavy use. Full-page taskcards may be protected by sheet protectors instead of being laminated.
Labels for hardware drawers or zip bags are included with the set. The labels are also valuable in establishing a reasonable amount of work in a work session and for sequencing the work.
Purchase of blackline masters includes a site license for reproduction at a single school. Many schools have found it practical to store them close to the copy machine for teachers to reproduce as needed.

Replacement Parts

Any material damaged in the laminating machine can be replaced by contacting Conceptual Learning Material. Material damaged or lost by the children can be replaced for a small handling fee.