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Understanding Pre-Algebra I (Mathematical Reasoning) (Grades 6-8)
For those using Mathematical Reasoning by Critical Thinking Company, here is the next step after finishing level G. Released in 2018, this course uses the same approach to help students apply reasoning and skill for higher level math. Understanding Pre-Algebra helps lay the foundation that will build confidence before going on to Algebra I.
This book is standards-based and topics are organized logically. There are 15 chapters Family of Numbers, Working with Integers, Working with Rational Numbers, Ratio/Proportion/Percent, Percent Applications, Algebraic Expressions, Equations and Solving Word Problems, Inequalities and Applications, Understanding Square Roots and Irrational Numbers, Two-Dimensional Geometry, Understanding Volume and Surface Area, Graphing on the Coordinate Plane, Transformations and Congruency, Understanding Functions, and Probability and Statistics. This is a reproducible, consumable workbook with plenty of white space for working problems.
One of the program's strengths is the abundance of word problems. These are taught using charts and tables, which offer visuals to help students interpret the problem. Chapters are divided into concepts (each is typically 2 pages); cover one concept a day in order to work through the book in one school year. Each concept begins with an explanation or definition; colored sample boxes offer visual instruction or explanation, followed by an exercise or practice. Every chapter is finished out with a Chapter Review, which could be used as a test. Chapter Reviews aren't cumulative but a review of that chapter only.
Some helpful resources included are a glossary of important math vocabulary, a list of formulas, table of square roots, and answers to the exercises with explanations for some of the more difficult problems. A two-part final exam is also included, which covers all material in the book.
Prepare your student for high school math and standardized testing with the logical, thorough approach found in Understanding Pre-Algebra. COMPLETE SOLUTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FREE ON THE PUBLISHER WEBSITE. 442 pgs, pb. ~ Donna
This book teaches and develops the math concepts and critical thinking skills necessary for success in Algebra I and future mathematics courses at the high school level. It was written with the premise that students cannot problem-solve or take leaps of reasoning without understanding the concepts and elements that lead to discovery. The author"with 35 years of experience teaching mathematics"is a firm believer that understanding leads to confidence and confidence gives students the resolve to succeed in higher level mathematics rather than fear it.
It is standards-based, but what makes it different from other pre-algebra books is that it organizes concepts in a logical fashion, stressing practice and critical thinking. It avoids the mistakes"found in many other math books"of trying to teach new concepts before students receive the prerequisite skills and practice necessary for success. The concepts are presented clearly and in connection to other concepts. Math vocabulary is very important to success in higher mathematics, so this book includes easy-to-follow explanations and a user-friendly glossary.
At such an early age, mathematical reasoning begins with simple activities such as distinguishing between even or odd amounts and learning the ordinal numbers. This series is correlated to the NCTM standards and accordingly incorporates topics such as patterns, number concepts/number lines, graphs, fractions, probability, geometry, and problem solving, as well as basic operations. The full color activity sheets should especially appeal to the younger student. Not only are the illustrations eye-catching, but they do an excellent job of demonstrating mathematical representations and relationships. Although manipulatives are not required, a link to a virtual manipulative website is provided in case additional concrete level reinforcement is needed. A wide variety of exercises and activities are utilized to keep your child both interested and motivated. For instance, Thinker Doodles and Mind Benders activities from parent company Critical Thinking are scattered throughout.
Beginning 1 focuses on numbers 1-5 while Beginning 2 focuses on 0-10, and they are intended for use with 3 and 4 year olds. The concepts are presented in a spiral fashion, so students will see the concept repeated at different intervals throughout the book. In most cases, children who finish these first two books should be ready to tackle kindergarten math.
Books A through F are for grades kindergarten through 5th grade, and can be used as core math curriculum. We also like to recommend them as a critical thinking supplement for any math program that is light in that particular area. These books incorporate the same spiral approach found in the Beginning books. Level G has been added for 6th grade and goes beyond drill and practice. It incorporates discussion-based problem solving to prepare students for the reasoning required for upper-level math.
Book 2 of the original series, Mathematical Reasoning Through Verbal Analysis, can be used after the series as a supplement to your math curriculum. A more analytical or math reasoning approach is needed for higher level math and this book will help fill that need. This book can also be used as a reference and resource tool to fill in gaps. Since the book is nicely organized by "strands" (topics), and, additionally, into subtopics, you can easily find problem solving exercises to help repair any deficiency detected or an alternate way of teaching a concept (useful if your child has developed a case of "math block" to understanding a particular concept). Topics cover the entire realm of elementary math: understanding numbers, counting, sequencing, geometry, basic arithmetic operations, measurement, numerical comparisons (greater than, less than, equal to), and tables and graphs. The teacher's manual contains teaching suggestions and the answers. These books are reproducible for family use and range in length from 240-380+ pages.
Product Format: | Paperback |
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Brand: | Critical Thinking Company |
Grades: | 6-8 |
ISBN: | 9781601449092 |
Length in Inches: | 11 |
Width in Inches: | 8.5 |
Height in Inches: | 1 |
Weight in Pounds: | 3.0187 |