Compute-A-Color - A Sensory System for Learning Arithmetic

SIMPLE STRATEGIES HELP TO MAKE MATH FUN!

The sparing and logical design of Compute-A-Color math follows the adage that ‘simple is better'. Children begin with ‘hands on' wooden numerals which are graduated by unit thickness 1-10; only four colors are used to show number relationships.

The sparing, familiar and logical use of sensory materials meets criteria for educational design that declares “Oversimplified strategies are needed…Curriculum design should minimize the load on working memory. This principle is not one that can be taken into account after the strategy to be taught has been selected and the sequence of instructional activities has been planned. Instead, it must be taken into account in the original selection of the strategy to be taught and at each step in the design process.” Case, Robbie, “Developmental Theory of Instruction.” 48 Review of Educational Research 3 (1978): 439-463. Compute-A-Color design meets this challenge

Kids see it, Say it, Feel it… understand it.

They see number relationships with the help of color.
Compute-A-Color math uses the power of color to visualize these relationships. Children understand color! It is one of the first stimuli a child can differentiate. They eagerly seek and point to every numeral showing ‘red' (and other repeats), to self-discover the pattern of numbers.

Famous theorists call prime numbers the ‘building blocks' of all mathematics. (*Defined below.) Many people are unaware of this fact. Nevertheless, primes are at the ‘heart' of understanding number relationships. Children need to understand and enjoy numbers to achieve potential.

They feel ... which numbers are bigger and which are smaller.
The wooden numerals 1-10 are graduated by unit thickness . By comparing thicknesses, students discover that two 2's are the same thickness as a four; three 3's are the same thickness as a nine. Children also find that two 2's do not equal 3. They can self-discover and correct their own mistakes. That is a coveted path for learning.

They say...“I get it!” What motivates kids to learn? Success! CAC numerals promote:

Autonomy in learning
Understanding of number relationships
Eager self-discovery of important facts and concepts
Self-esteem and enjoyment in early math experiences

They understand! The Compute-A-Color® early math learning system uses color coded to number as a TOOL for understanding number patterns and relationships; a SUPPORT for logic and memory, and a BRIDGE for moving from concrete to abstract understanding of number facts and concepts.

Compute-A-Color®

Stories

SIMPLE STRATEGIES HELP TO MAKE MATH FUN!

Kids see it, Say it, Feel it… understand it.