What does an activity-based learning classroom look like? Well, it looks . . . active! Wander by any room where ABL is being practiced and chances are you will hear a lot of eager voices, see a range of purposeful activities and a group of busy, engaged learners.

Abstract concepts are difficult for most young children to grasp simply by hearing them explained. ABL makes the abstract concrete.

It is about doing rather than listening, about active engagement rather than mindless copying of words and numbers which are often little understood. In mathematics, for example, objects are sorted, counted and manipulated to bring meaning to the symbols + - x /. The mystery of the decimal system is explored simply, using matchsticks bundled into 10s and 100’s. Shape is demystified using empty boxes or walking around the building and streets looking for circle and oblongs. Concepts like full and empty are taught in the sand pit; fractions are made clear in cooking class.

Language skills are enhanced through real-time activities (climbing UP the ladder, sliding DOWN the slide)  and science becomes real as the toy car rolls easily along the smooth surface but quickly comes to a halt on rough ground.

Rhymes help children develop a love of words for their own sake, while rhythmic clapping helps them appreciate the way words break into syllables and sounds. A game like I-spy (...with my little eye, something beginning with P) can help unlock the code of literacy.