Ray's for Today Level 1 Set

The Student Text is easy to use, and students are provided space on each page to work out the lesson. Instruction is presented, examples provided, then an exercise. Books are printed in black and white with no fancy graphics or pictures. The only illustrations you see directly support the lesson or exercises.

The Instructors Manual explains how the program works, clarifies your role as a parent/teacher, lists suggested manipulatives, and outlines how to assess. You can use the suggested manipulatives or household items, which are: more than 100 counters, chalkboard/whiteboard or blank paper (your choice), jumbo-sized craft sticks, rubber bands, handwriting practice pads (optional), 12-month calendar, 100 pennies, 10 dimes, 4 quarters, 2 half dollars, one dollar bill, crayons, 2-4 treats to sell, 5 game markers, paperclip, various sized toys, plastic glasses, plastic fork, measuring cups, empty gallon jug, funnel, various templates found at the back of the Instructors Manual. These are some of the items used in both Levels 1 and 2, but a few other items are listed at the beginning of each unit. There are no formal assessments, but there are suggestions to help you out. Cement Mixers are oral drills that are found at the beginning of each unit (three units in Level 1 and five units in Level 2). These are used to cement the facts into the minds of young learners. Each unit begins with an overview, suggested schedule, background, goals, materials list, and extension activities. Each lesson within the unit includes materials needed and step-by-step instruction for teaching the concept that is very easy to follow. The appendix includes a scope and sequence for that level, end-of-year benchmark checklist, summer skills review, cement mixers checklist, templates to be copied for the lessons, and an answer key.

Level 1 includes reading, writing, and counting through 100, shapes, one more, one less, grouping by ten, calendar, addition with up to three numbers, number bonds, story problems, money, time, temperature, and length.