The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast
Education
Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny discuss why nothing makes homeschooling mothers more nervous than the concept of teaching math. Then, making it as simple as two plus two, they provide a road map of tips, suggestions, and insights to help you confidently teach math.
Show Notes
Let's first talk about what a general scope and sequence would look like for the different stages of your students and some general teaching methods, and then we can discuss curriculum and how to choose the best one for your student.
Picking a curriculum
Doing research should not involve asking Facebook.
Review the curriculum in person if possible, ask a friend, see it at a conference, or view it online. Be thorough.
Take free placement tests.
Speaking very broadly, you have two methods to teach math – Mastery and Incremental. Both use manipulatives and pen and paper.
Caution – common core programs.
Primary Grades (PreK-2nd)
When teaching math to small children, it is important to make the lessons fun and engaging. Use a variety of visual and tactile learning tools, such as counting manipulatives, flashcards, and hands-on activities.
Or you can just pull forks and spoons out of the silverware drawer.
Number recognition, writing numbers, counting, and pattern recognition are the goals at this early stage, and each child will gain these skills with daily practice in short lessons. Once these skills have been mastered, you can move on to simple addition and subtraction.
Elementary (3rd - 6th Grades)
A time to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and reasoning skills. In these years, the children should be mastering:
1. Addition and Subtraction
2. Multiplication and Division
3. Fractions
4. Decimals
5. Geometry
6. Measurement
7. Telling Time
8. Money Skills
9. Probability and Statistics
10. Algebraic Thinking
Reinforce these skills with measuring, building, baking, and other household activities.
Middle School
These are the years to prepare for high school and higher math solidly. Take time—no shame in repeating concepts.
A solid foundation in math basics is critical to prepare a high school student for advanced math. You build that foundation by helping the student to understand the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing formulas. Practicing problem-solving skills, such as breaking down complex problems into smaller steps, is also essential. Providing the student with challenging problems and activities can also help them to develop a deeper understanding of the material. Finally, it is vital to give the student a supportive environment and to encourage them to persist in their efforts.
High School
BTW - You will be surprised at how much you remember and how much better you are at math than in high school.
Final notes
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