Principles Of Mathematics

We don't often think of math in terms of being presented with a Christian Worldview, but Master Books has done just that. Using a Biblical lens, the comprehensive, two-year, junior high math course covers the basics of arithmetic and pre-algebra and thoroughly prepare your student for algebra.

The middle school curriculum is intended to be used for two years for 7^th and 8^th grades, although advanced 6^th graders could also complete it. It is designed to be used before the student starts Algebra (in the curriculum of your choice). This curriculum would also work well for high schoolers who need a review of basic concepts and beginning algebra. The table of contents topical format allows you to use this text as a reference or extra practice for someone who might be struggling.

There are two books for each level of the program: a student text and a teacher guide. The teacher guide also holds student worksheets. Book 1 reviews basic arithmetic and teaches problem-solving skills and mental math through a Biblical lens. Book 2 is considered the pre-algebra portion of the program, so students need to be competent in basic functions of fractions, decimals, percent, and basic geometry. Book 2 assumes the knowledge of content presented in Book 1; so if you arent sure where to begin, have your student take the placement tests available on our website.

The Student Book (textbook) is the instruction, divided into chapters, then into lessons. Important notes about the curriculum and its use are found in the front of the book. Students will read the lesson in the Student Book and complete the activity page found in the Teacher Guide (more about that in a bit). Thats how easy it is to use this curriculum. Dont confuse easy-to-use with over-simplified content. After comparing the content of this course with that of Bob Jones, Saxon, Alpha Omega etc., Principles of Mathematics stays with the pack. It covers all pertinent topics for algebra preparation. While there is quite a bit of reading, the language is fairly easy to read and comprehend (conversational). The text is black and white with examples and illustrations, so may not appeal to your more visual learner. Calculator instruction is included, beginning with lesson 4.5, but parent/teacher can discern the amount of calculator use allowed. Lessons that have recommended calculator use are marked with a calculator symbol.

The Teacher Guide is a very important part of this program. You will find a course schedule, student worksheets for each lesson, answer keys (a mix of answers and solutions), quizzes, and tests. Also included in the worksheets are math problems from historical text books, such as Applied Mathematics for Junior High Schools and High Schools and Secondary Arithmetic: Commercial and Industrial for High, Industrial, Commercial, Normal Schools, and Academics and Practical Algebra: First Year Course. These problems help students understand the role of math throughout history, but they are also good thinking math problems. There are two versions of the schedule two-year and one-year. The two-year schedule is basically one lesson per day using both books to equal two years of junior high math. If you have a student who is really motivated and wants to finish both books in one year, there is a schedule for that. In this option, students complete about 2 to 3 lessons per day depending on the length. The Student Workbook is consumable (not reproducible); pages are perforated with plenty of space for students to show their work and answer questions.

The Principles of Mathematics Sets include a student text and the teacher guide. Note: If you feel you need additional support, pre-recorded videos to accompany the lessons are available for a fee (18 month subscription) at MasterBooksAcademy.com.

Supplies suggested for this course are the student textbook and workbook, binder with notebook paper, abacus, blank index cards, calculator, graph paper, compass, measuring tape with Metric and US measure, ruler with Metric and US measure, and a protractor.

There is no separation of math and God: this text strives to teach students math and its connection to God and the Bible. The first 3 sections of chapter one are full of information to debunk misconceptions about math; explain math from a Biblical foundation; and expose the spiritual battle in math: all to lay a solid foundation for studying math with a Biblical Worldview. I have read a lot of articles and books on the relationship of math and God, but have never seen an actual curriculum that incorporates the two. ~ Donna