Frequently asked questions
What subjects are covered in the Brick Math program?
Brick Math covers the key math subjects taught in elementary school (grades K - 6): Counting and Cardinality, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Basic Fractions, Fraction Multiplication, Fraction Division, Basic Measurement, Decimals, and Advanced Measurement and Geometry. Each subject is covered with a teaching guide and a student edition.
What grade levels apply to the Brick Math program?
Counting and Cardinality, Addition, and Subtraction are geared for students in grades K – 2. Multiplication, Division, Basic Fractions, and Basic Measurement are generally taught in grades 3 – 5. Fraction Multiplication, Fraction Division, Decimals, and Advanced Measurement and Geometry are most often part of the curriculum in grades 4 - 6. Of course, lessons in all the books can be used in different grade levels, depending on your students.
How effective is Brick Math in improving students' mathematical understanding? Does it improve test scores?
There have been several studies of the effectiveness of Brick Math as a teaching tool. For grades K - 2, Brick Math has been shown to improve students' test scores by an average of 4 points. For grades 3 - 5, studies found average test score increases of 7 - 9 points from pre-test to post-test after teaching with Brick Math methods. Further, studies show students increase in engagement and excitement about math, as well as demonstrated increases in conceptual understanding of the content. Click here to learn more about Brick Math studies
how do i order Brick math?
For teachers and parents, books (in paperback and PDF versions) and brick sets can be purchased online. Paperback versions are also available on Amazon, and Kindle versions are available on Amazon Kindle. PDF versions are also available on the website Teachers Pay Teachers.
For schools ordering the Brick Math program in quantity, with or without professional development, discounts and free shipping are available by ordering online.
For schools ordering the Brick Math program in quantity, with or without professional development, discounts and free shipping are available by ordering online.
is Brick Math aligned with curriculum standards?
Yes. Brick Math’s research-based math lessons are designed to help introduce foundational concepts and build mastery through hands-on engagement. The Brick Math curriculum is aligned to the Principles, Standards and Expectations of the National Council of the Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). A vertical K-6 progression highlighting alignment is included with the Teacher Edition. Click here to learn more about Brick Math curriculum alignment
is Brick Math a stand-alone math curriculum or a supplement to curriculum?
Both. Some schools have adopted Brick Math as their elementary math curriculum, and others are using Brick Math to supplement their current textbook materials. The program provides differentiation for learners at a variety of levels. Accommodations and modifications for different types of learners are provided with the program. Click here to learn more about the differentiation capabilities of Brick Math
does the Brick Math program include lesson plans?
Yes. The Teacher Edition guides the teacher through the lessons clearly and in sequence. The Student Edition gives each student a workbook for drawing brick models and explaining thinking in writing; in addition, the Student Edition includes extra problems, activities, and a student assessment for each chapter. The methods can be used by teachers and parents without any special training. Click here for sample Brick Math lesson plans
is professional development available for the Brick Math program?
Yes. Although no special training is required, professional development is available for schools who would like it when implementing the program. Schools can order Brick Math materials and professional development as a package or separately. Contact us if you are interested in arranging for a custom package with professional development.
is Brick Math appropriate for homeschooling?
Yes, the program works very well as part of a homeschooling curriculum. Parents can also use Brick Math with their children for enrichment, or to help their children at home if they are struggling with math concepts.
how was Brick Math developed?
Brick Math is based on theories of Constructionism and brain research. Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of teaching math using manipulatives to incorporate a hands-on style. Click here to learn more about the research behind Brick Math
does Brick Math work well for math intervention for struggling students?
Yes. Brick Math is a great teaching resource for students who are struggling with math concepts. The visual and tactile nature of building brick models, along with the emphasis on deep understanding of math, makes Brick Math an excellent tool for math intervention.
Will the LEGO® bricks I already own work with Brick Math?
Standard-sized LEGO® bricks or compatible bricks will work with Brick Math. It’s easy to check if you have the right bricks. Every chapter has a “Suggested Bricks” list for the bricks that will be used in that chapter. The list covers enough bricks for two students to use. Each book includes a total brick inventory that lists all the bricks suggested for the program for every two students. We recommend that each student also have a baseplate on which to build brick models to keep the models from shifting.
Where can I get more information about Brick Math?
The Facebook page for Brick Math gives more information about the program and offers opportunities for the community of users to ask questions about the program. Find it at www.facebook.com/brickmathseries or by searching on Facebook for “Teaching Math Using LEGO Bricks.”