Horizons Math
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For Math Enthusiasts
Those who know me know that I often remark on what a blessing it is to have multiple children with multiple capabilities. Not only does it add unexpected dimensions to the family dynamics, but it also helps us to recognize the struggles and triumphs of a wider assortment of parents. Furthermore, it opens our eyes anew to the fact that one size does not fit all. Not in pantyhose. Not in math. While there are many math programs for the standard-issue child, they may bore the socks off the bright child who enjoys math. For the child who thrives on a challenge and finds math a wonderful mystery to be solved, choose Horizons Math.
Analytical Reasoning, Memorization, and Drill Applied to Real-Life Situations
Open any Horizons workbook and the first thing you will notice is how bright and colorful the pages are. But don't get the wrong impression; there is nothing fluffy about this program. Horizons Math includes analytical reasoning, memorization, and drill. The skills taught in Horizons Math readily apply to real-life situations. This is a fast-paced, hard-core math program.
Spiral Learning More Closely Parallels Real Life
Using the spiral learning approach, new concepts are introduced while all the fundamental concepts learned in earlier units are reviewed and reinforced for true mastery. This repetition can drive some kids nuts, but spiral learning more closely parallels real life. Some workbooks teach only one topic until it is mastered, but when you use math, you are often employing addition, fractions, and multiplication to solve your problems. If your child frets about all the repetition, you can certainly eliminate all but a handful of the repeats, but reintroduce them if competency wanes.
Student-Directed Instructions Increase Every Year
In the younger grades, directions on the workbook pages are sparse. But they include a bit more student-directed instructions each year until your child is able to do the lessons independently. The teacher's manuals are optional, but beginning or harried moms will find them especially helpful in the early years when they include all the teaching tasks for your hands-on learners. Additional worksheets (included the teacher's manual) can be purchased separately in case a student needs extra review on a concept. Each grade consists of three pieces: two colorful workbooks that contain eighty lessons apiece, and a teacher's manual. A placement test is also available.
No special manipulatives are required!
