Understanding Mathematics

Description

A non-technical book that explains math from counting to calculus. Topics build on one another, providing the reader with a complete overview of mathematics. This book is divided into three sections - elementary (numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages, negative numbers, exponents, pre-algebra), intermediate (solving one algebraic equation, solving a system of equations, word problems, functions, graphing, geometry, measurement of geometric figures, trigonometry), and advanced (logarithms, complex numbers, finding geometry, using algebra, introducing calculus, the derivative, the integral). This is not a text, but a discussion that includes numerous worked examples. For parents, students, or anyone who wants to understand math. Also useful as a comprehensive math reference.

It does no good to have a text without practice of the concepts. Students read the content found in the main text "Understanding Mathematics," then complete the corresponding section in the solutions (companion) guide. The first half of the guide offers hints, examples, explanations, exercises, and problems for practice. Each chapter's content builds on the previous chapter, and initial problems incorporate the new concept presented in the main text and more challenging problems with multiple concepts by the end of the chapter. The second half of the book gives the solutions for all of the problems in the book. A 20-question chapter summary concludes each chapter. The text along with the solutions guide provide extra practice in specific skill areas, allow students to work ahead of their curriculum for an added challenge, or can be used for a comprehensive review before taking a standardized test. sc.~ Anh / Donna

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.