Miquon Math Grade 3

Description

Math is not just numbers! Using Cuisenaire rods, Miquon Math Labs allows children to model numbers and operations concretely. It uses a hands-on, pattern-building, discovery method that fosters independence and creativity in problem solving. The unique format of the program allows for flexibility - use each book straight through, or teach topically. It introduces children to all four basic math operations in grade one - plus fractions, clock arithmetic, area, volume and factoring - building confidence in children and taking the "mystery" out of these otherwise-delayed topics. By third grade, children understand different base systems and graph algebraic equations! These are not typical workbooks that test what a child already has learned, but lab sheets - teaching pages. Children are shown that, while there is only one correct solution, there are different ways to arrive at it, and it encourages them to develop their own techniques. The "standard" approach is not always the best. For example, which is easier: 400 - 298 or 398 - 298 + 2 or 400 - 300 + 2? Techniques like these really help when caught without pencil or paper! After using Miquon with four children, we can attest that this program has promoted flexibility in problem solving - using the right technique for the situation. Ours now tackle new or difficult problems creatively, even fearlessly!

I would also recommend purchase of the Annotations. A teacher's guide for all six workbooks, it contains a general overview and several suggestions on how to present each major concept. It also provides preliminary activities for a concrete understanding of the math concepts as well as more detailed explanations for many of the lab sheets. While answers are supplied for some of the more "tricky" sheets, most worksheets are shown sans answers, so take the time to fill in the answers as you correct work for your first "math labs" student - then you'll have a completed key to use with the next!

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.