Textbook Study Method Grade 8

Description

Christian Light Publications now offers a textbook option for grade 8 math. Using the same incremental approach and spiral review as the LightUnit option, the content is largely the same; however, the sequence and exercise problems are a bit different. The theme storyline is also distinctive. This format makes it convenient for a classroom, co-op, or homeschool setting. The ten themed units each contain 16 lessons. A test follows each unit. This level assumes the student has a good understanding of basic arithmetic and concentrates on consumer math, geometry, and pre-algebra. Students should be ready for algebra after taking this course. Components include the textbook, teacher guide, full solution answer key, and student material packet.

Full explanations of each new topic are included in the non-consumable hardcover Student Text. The units begin with an engaging story about the Scout family and their summer vacation as they hike and visit different businesses. Character-building quotes are scattered throughout the text for inspiration. The beginning of each lesson includes a colored teaching box that explains the new concept and shows examples, followed by exercises to reinforce the concept. The “Applying Your Skills” section in each lesson reviews previous concepts and the “Sharpening Your Skills” section drills basic math skills including the four basic operations, math terms, geometric formulas, measurement equivalents, and fraction, decimal, and percent equivalents. Below review problems are page numbers indicating where the concept was first introduced. 

The spiral-bound Teacher Guide begins each lesson with a list of materials needed and the lesson overview. A reduced copy of the student text is included with teaching notes on the bottom and sides of each page. Answers to the student exercises and speed drills are in red. Appendixes A-E include lots of helpful resources such as reference charts, extra practice, math games, mental math strategies, and much more. The Resource CD in the back of the teacher guide includes printable posters and practice sheets that correspond to specific units and lessons.

The Full Solution Answer Key is spiral-bound and provides answers to all the exercises in the student textbook, quizzes and tests, and speed/mastery drills. The Student Material Packet includes consumable worksheets, speed/mastery drills, and quizzes and tests. Worksheets and speed drills are unbound. Quizzes and tests are staple-bound, and pages are perforated. All the student packet materials come shrink-wrapped together.

This is a solid practical math program that relates math to everyday life. The incremental learning and continual review allow students to master important concepts before moving on to algebra. ~  Gina

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.