Quick Thinks Math, Books A1, B1, or C1

by Robert Femiano

The Critical Thinking Co.

Book A1 in this series is suggested for grades 2-5. Its purpose is to “...introduce and reinforce mathematical concepts in a quick, fun way.” Thus, it stresses thinking skills more than computation. Students will need to be able to add and subtract. Multiplication and division are only introduced toward the end of the book as the problems progress in difficulty. Children are encouraged to use objects, draw pictures, and write about their strategies. Reflecting the NCTM standards, emphasis is on the process more than obtaining the correct answer. (It’s up to parents whether or not to stress both.) Unlike typical word problems, these often require a number of steps such as deducing one answer before arriving at the final one. For example, “How long will it take a 7 year old to triple his/her age?” This reproducible workbook contains 120 problems, with only three or four per page to allow plenty of space for children to work. Solutions are at the back of the book.

Book B1, suggested for grades 5-8, requires students to have a working knowledge of multiplication and division, focusing on fractions, decimals, and percents. Some of the most difficult problems use a little algebra. The format is the same as A1.