Choosing a math program can be a daunting task because there are so many choices. Our understanding of how students learn mathematics has increased significantly since Mason’s time. The Alveary team strongly recommends RightStart Math for the elementary grades because we know that it is comprehensive, uses methods of inquiry and discovery, has built-in mental math practice, and emphasizes ideas (through manipulatives) before algorithms. Their customer service is excellent--they provide helpful videos online, and they will even walk you through concepts you do not understand.
An essential part of the math curriculum is to play the math card games. This should be done regularly in the afternoon or evenings.
The study of mathematics is enhanced by the discovery of how it was developed by real people who needed to solve real problems. Beginning in Grade 5, students read about the history of math. For Grades 7 and above, math history is included in the science curriculum as well.
Key Principles of Math Instruction (14 min.)
In this video, Dr. Jen Spencer discusses math in light of Mason's understanding and current research. She provides advice on how to help your students make sense of math concepts in a way that allows them to come to their own understanding and not just go through the motions or memorize algorithms.
Math Lesson (11 min.)
Reflection
Respond to the following in the comments or in your journal:
1) Describe your relationship with math when you were a student. Has that changed since teaching math in a Mason setting?
2) What new insights did you glean from these videos? What will you implement in your math lessons?
3) Have you been consistently playing math games with your students? Why is that an important part of learning math?
4) What are you wondering?
In Mason's Own Words
“…the use of the study in practical life is the least of its uses. The chief value of arithmetic, like that of higher mathematics, lies in the training it affords to the reasoning powers, and in the habits of insight, readiness, accuracy, intellectual truthfulness it engenders.” (Home Education, p. 254)
“Mathematics depend upon the teacher rather than upon the text-book and few subjects are worse taught; chiefly because teachers have seldom time to give the inspiring ideas, what Coleridge calls, the ‘Captain’ ideas, which should quicken imagination.” (Philosophy of Education, p. 233)
Further Reading
RightStart Math Webinars on the RightStart website
Right Start YouTube channel - overview of lessons
