We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
Description
A math program based on the Kumon method. Basically, the earmarks of this system are:
- Concepts introduced in small, incremental steps, allowing children to master them without confusion
- Single topic books rather than mixed strands. Children concentrate just on addition, for example, before moving to subtraction
- Concepts are taught by discovery method than being spelled out
The series is meant to be self-directed. Students take charge of their own learning on every level. They complete pages, check their work, record their scores, and determine whether to move on or review. The pace almost guarantees success. Children should work a "few" pages a day; assignments should take about 20 minutes to complete. Pages are marked with the skill level required at top and the points each question is valued at (a very young child will need some help totaling points). Very short instruction (or an example) is given on a few pages. For example, there is a short explanation when children begin to subtract a 2-digit number from a 3-digit number where borrowing is needed. However, the child is given every opportunity to intuit this beforehand. By the time he reaches this page, he has already been subtracting double-digit numbers for many pages. Some of these would require borrowing, but, since they are able to subtract, say, 7 from 12, the Kumon method wants the child to see a pattern when increasing to 7 from 22, 7 from 32, etc. This does remind me of the approach used in Miquon as well. Besides these very infrequent helps there are just some small prompts for children to look for patterns in their answers, and words of encouragement. Pages are pleasing to the eye; they are colored, clean, and problems are well-spaced. The Kumon method has been used successfully with children around the world for over 50 years. It does seem like it would help a child to take charge of his own learning and help himself to understanding rather than being spoon-fed each bite. For Kumon math earlier than Grade 1, see the Kumon section in Early Learning.
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.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.