What is the CPA Approach?
The CPA (Concrete – Pictorial – Abstract) approach moves from physical objects, through pictures, to symbolic notation.
**Step 1: CONCRETE** (Physical Objects) -> **Step 2: PICTORIAL** (Visual Graphics) -> **Step 3: ABSTRACT** (Formal Symbols)
Objects and pictures may help children connect actions with mathematical notation. Return to earlier representations when helpful. Moving objects on a screen provides a visual model; real objects add hands-on experience.
