Mathematical Reasoning Level B (Grade 1)

My 1st grader finished Math-U-See Alpha halfway through the year because she had already done much of the addition portion in Kindergarten, so I bought Mathematical Reasoning as a secondary curriculum because it was low-cost, it introduced some concepts not in Math-U-See (like measuring and more emphasis on geometry), and it changed the routine and format of the material. I did not think she was strong enough in subtraction to move up to the next level. While I like Math-U-See as a core curriculum, Mathematical Reasoning has been great for a supplement. My daughter particularly likes the dot-to-dots, though lately I have to hide the picture page so she can't use the numbers on it to figure out the problems on the drill-work page. As a standalone curriculum, however, I think Mathematical Reasoning is too sporadic. There is no methodical working through concepts, just workbook pages you figure out as you go, eventually building to the full knowledge base of the grade level. I prefer starting with the methodical approach of Math-U-See and following up with the more colorful activities in Mathematical Reasoning. Having said that, the end of Mathematical Reasoning B is more advanced than Math-U-See Alpha by introducing double-digit addition and more complex geometry.

I thought I would love this book. I love that it is open and go without tons of pieces to keep track of. I do like that they are colorful and the thinking skills that they promote, but the size of it was daunting...I know, I know, homeschoolers don’t have to finish the book within a year, but when there’s still leftovers after trying to do two pages a day (which was sometimes too much) with kids that are already maybe a little behind, it’s discouraging to have half the book left at the end of the year.

I can’t remember if it was this one, but one of the ones in the series had a problem whose correct answer would read, “Boys > Girls” (boys are greater than girls or girls are less than boys) Come on, use a pail and a shovel or something. A few other problems were similar, but this was the most striking. It really put me off.

This has been an excellent math book for my twin girls who are in 1st grade. It's not even remotely boring, it's full color, interactive, and covers all areas of math.

However, I do have to say that if they had a teachers manual to accompany it, it would be very helpful. I'm often at a loss on how to teach the lessons for full comprehension, and must rely heavily on what I can recall from school. I would still personally recommend it, but if you're looking for a self instructive style, such as Saxon Math, this is not for you.

I really like Mathematical Reasoning. I've used it with both my kids & they enjoy the way it teaches math. One of their favorite subjects for sure!

I really like this book. It offers a different set of skills than math you see. My daughter loves the bright colors in the book.