Math in Focus 2020 maintains the strong Singapore
concrete-to-pictorial-to-abstract methodology with a few updates. The consumable,
softcover student edition has performance tasks and STEAM exercises at the end
of each chapter. There are no workbooks; however, the Extra Practice &
Homework Books have taken the place of the workbooks in the older edition.
Although the scope and sequence is very similar to the older editions, the
program is based on the newer Singapore Ministry of Education syllabus and some
of the lessons have been reorganized. If you are using an older edition and
desire to switch to the 2020 edition, you should be able to do this seamlessly.
This mastery program combines conceptual instruction with hands-on learning to
aid students in building stronger math sense and problem-solving skills.
The main components for the 2020 edition include a Teacher
Edition, Student Edition, and Extra Practice & Homework Books for each
semester. The spiral-bound Teacher Edition is a classroom teacher guide.
It is in full-color and includes lesson plans and pacing guides for each
chapter, a reduced copy of the student pages with answers, instructions for
using manipulatives, and differentiated math instruction for struggling, on-level,
and advanced students. Please note there are references to online
features and assessments that are not available to homeschool users.
Student Editions are also in full-color and include
the core of the student learning. Step-by-step instruction, various diagrams
and examples, and individual practice are all included in the student edition.
In fact, there might be some overlap between the teacher guide and student
edition instruction, but the teacher edition is still necessary to implement
required manipulatives, use remediation or enrichment ideas, and have answers
to the student book. Extra Practice & Homework books are beneficial
for students that need additional practice to build mastery in the concepts
learned. These are available for Grade 2+. Answers are not included; however,
we will email you a PDF answer key upon request with proof of purchase. The Assessments
Book (also Grade 2+) provides cumulative review, chapter tests, and
mid-year and end-of-year tests. Answers are in the back of the book. Optional Manipulative
Kits are available for your convenience.
Math in Focus promotes a strong emphasis on problem
solving as well as critical thinking, and helps students develop a deeper
understanding of concepts as they are taught the “why” behind math. This
program works well for students that do better focusing on one concept at a
time, like the use of manipulatives, and do not like the traditional drill and
memorization of math facts approach.
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.
