Mathematical Reasoning
The Critical Thinking Co. · Grades PreK-6
Gifted or advanced math learners who are bored by repetitive drill; excellent as supplement to a procedural math program; strong for CogAT/OLSAT gifted test prep contexts
$35-46/level
Overview
Mathematical Reasoning is a colorful workbook-based math program from The Critical Thinking Co, designed for visual learners and kids who do better with puzzle-style problems than rote computation. Each page mixes concepts (arithmetic, patterns, geometry, logic) rather than drilling one skill at a time. Loved as a supplement or for kids whose math instincts are stronger than their procedural fluency. Not a complete spine on its own at upper levels; works best paired with a more structured program for procedural practice.
Strengths
- •Develops mathematical reasoning and problem-solving beyond computation
- •integrates logic puzzles, pattern recognition, spatial reasoning
- •strong visual variety in layout
- •affordable per level
- •works one-on-one or independently for older students
- •awards-recognized for gifted education
Limitations
- •Insufficient practice volume. Students needing repetition for mastery will hit gaps
- •spiral structure visits topics briefly
- •not a complete standalone math curriculum at upper levels without pairing
- •no manipulative component
- •purely paper-based
- •assessment/placement can be ambiguous
Best fit for
Gifted or advanced math learners who are bored by repetitive drill; excellent as supplement to a procedural math program; strong for CogAT/OLSAT gifted test prep contexts
The honest read
Widely used as a supplement rather than a standalone, even by parents who purchased it as primary. The critical thinking emphasis is praised but thin practice volume leads most parents to pair with drill work. Best-kept secret: excellent for gifted math thinkers who find procedural programs boring.
Get Mathematical Reasoning
Gifted or advanced math learners who are bored by repetitive drill; excellent as supplement to a procedural math program; strong for CogAT/OLSAT gifted test prep contexts
SHOPRelated in Math
Mathematical Reasoning
$35-46/level