In my classroom, fact practice is part of our daily routine, not something that appears only when we have extra time. Level Up to Lightning Speed fits naturally into that space because it is structured, predictable, and flexible enough to meet the needs of all learners without adding pressure.
Level Up is a self-paced fact fluency system designed for students in grades 1–5 and works just as well with older students who need time and confidence to rebuild their skills. Students move through clearly defined levels, beginning with +0 facts. Everyone starts at the same place, which helps normalize review, build automaticity, and give students an early experience of success. From there, students progress when they are ready, not according to a schedule.
Fact ladders are one tool students use to practice, but they are only one part of a broader system. Practice is varied by design. Students may be working with flashcards, dice drills, whiteboards, partner scrimmages, independent games, or fact ladders, all while focusing on the same set of facts. This keeps practice engaging and allows students to choose approaches that work for them, while the overall routine stays consistent.
The daily workflow is simple and efficient. Students enter, grab their materials, and decide whether they are practicing or ready to request a Promotion Match. Promotion Matches are short, two-minute quizzes that require 100% accuracy. Students can attempt one any day they feel ready, or choose to continue practicing without penalty. If they pass, they earn their level token or bead the same day. If not, they return to practice and try again later. There is no sense of failure built into the system, only feedback.
Training time is short but focused. Students practice for six to eight minutes at their current level while the teacher circulates, supports, and checks for readiness. Because students are self-paced and working independently or with partners, it is easy to differentiate without extra prep or multiple lesson plans. The wrap-up is quick, but important. We celebrate effort, perseverance, and growth, reinforcing that improvement matters more than speed.
One of the most motivating elements of the program is the tangible recognition of progress. Many teachers use beads on a chain or necklace so students can see and display their progress over time. These visual markers create excitement and pride, and they help build a positive culture around fact practice rather than one rooted in anxiety.
What I appreciate most about Level Up to Lightning Speed is that it mirrors how skill-building works outside the classroom. Students practice regularly, test when they feel ready, and move forward based on mastery rather than comparison. The expectations are clear, the routine is stable, and the experience is supportive. Over time, students build automaticity, confidence, and a sense of ownership over their learning, and those gains carry directly into their daily math work.
Check it out here.