Horizons Math from Alpha Omega Publications lays a solid foundation for numerical literacy
with an early emphasis on hands-on concept learning. Concepts are introduced
incrementally, then practiced, developed, and reviewed.
The program uses a few
separately purchased manipulatives (optional) as well as common household
items, charts, and number lines found in the teacher’s handbooks. Analytical
reasoning and mental math are stressed throughout the series, as well as
memorization and drill. The Teacher Book contains daily lesson plans, reduced
student pages, answers to the worktext, an overview, materials list,
activities, and supplemental worksheets. There are 160 lessons per level, each
taking about 20-30 minutes. Cumulative tests are given after every 10 lessons.
A part of each lesson is oral (more at grade K), and colorful student
worksheets lay foundations for lessons and review concepts previously taught.
The actual lesson is to be taught by the parent—there are only brief
instructions on the pages of the workbooks and are not intended to be self-
instructional. Boxed sets contain teacher book and student workbooks.
Admittedly, while no math program will work for everyone – Horizons Math seemingly
has few flaws. Although it may be more advanced for grade level than the
"average" program, this isn’t necessarily a negative. The
developmental approach to learning in this program means a non-math learner can
easily succeed, while the "math whiz" will be challenged by the
advanced topics introduced early.
These icons are designed to help you quickly understand and learn important information about our products.
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.
