First Grade Math with Confidence Instructor Guide

Children can commonly start grade 1 at the age of six years, or when they are able to count to at least 10, write numbers 1-10, identify basic shapes, and solve simple addition or subtraction word problems with objects. Topics include reading, writing, and comparing numbers to 100, place value to 100, mastery of addition and subtraction facts through 20, solving addition and subtraction word problems, charts and bar graphs, fractions (1/2, ¼) measurements, shapes, money, and time. Recommended manipulatives include 125 small counters, pattern blocks, coins, play money, 200 index cards, playing cards and dice, clocks with hands, 12” ruler, blank paper, pencils, and binder with plastic page protectors (2). Various household items are mentioned, for example: small toy, zip top bags, digital clock, etc.

Are you looking for a “Goldilocks” math curriculum? You know, the one that is not too hard, not too easy, but just right. Math with Confidence may pass the Goldilocks test for your child! Not only does it provide the right level of challenge for most children, but it also passes the Goldilocks test for parents with well defined goals, sequenced lessons, open and go scripted lessons, and easy to implement activities. The curriculum focuses on mastery with topical units and spiral review. Currently four levels are completed (K-3), with Grades 4 through 6 expected by 2026. The Instructor Guide and Student Workbook(s) are required to successfully teach the course.

Instructor Guides begin with introductory information and a helpful “how to use” section which gives parents the tools to confidently teach math. Scripted lessons for the teacher and easy to implement activities that use household items, along with a few common math manipulatives, the Instructor Guide equips parents to be successful. From Kindergarten through 2nd Grade, there are four teaching days and one optional enrichment or review day, for a total of 32 weeks. Weekly lessons have the same format: Overview of the week, lesson notes, and materials list for activities. Each lesson includes interactive teaching time and independent workbook time. The amount of time spent on each lesson will vary depending on the grade level. Kindergarten lessons will take about 15-20 minutes with First Grade requiring 20-25 minutes. Second Grade takes 20-30 minutes. Enrichment or review activities focus on games/activities or a suggested read aloud math book of the week. Beginning in Grade 3, the lessons have been grouped into units rather than weeks to provide more schedule flexibility. There are 16 units (128 regular lessons) in Grade 3, and each unit concludes with an optional enrichment activity and suggested picture book to read together. Lessons will take 25-35 minutes per day. Instructor Guides also include Answer Keys and Blackline master’s which are reproducible for your immediate family.

Colorful, consumable Student Workbooks provide independent daily work. In Grade 3, the Student Workbook is divided into 2 parts: Part A covering Units 1-8 and Part B Units 9-16. The Student Workbooks are reproducible for immediate family members, although the publisher has made great effort to keep the student workbooks affordable for families.

Sets are available that include the teacher and student books. Manipulative Kits are also available for your convenience.