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Using Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) Approach

Last updated 30 April 2025

The Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach provides a structure for planning learning experiences that use physical and visual aids to help children develop their understanding of numeracy concepts. The Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach is a valuable method for teaching numeracy concepts to young learners. This approach progresses from using concrete and familiar materials to pictorial representations and then to abstract symbolic representations. Here's how it works:

  • Concrete phase: In the concrete phase, you introduce the new concept or skill to the children using tangible, real-life objects 

  • Pictorial phase: Moving to the pictorial phase, you use images or pictures to reinforce children’s understanding of the concept or skill being taught

  • Abstract phase: Finally, in the abstract phase, you use words and symbols to help children master the concept or skill. This phase allows children to use more abstract ways to represent and communicate mathematical ideas

See this example illustrating the teaching of number ‘5’ using the CPA approach.