About Math 1 & 2

The series takes a problem-solving approach to math. The goal of the series is to provide a strategy to approach and solve math problems that learners are likely to encounter in their daily lives. The skills taught have application at school or work, at home and community.

Math 1 and 2 is aimed at learners who need to master the fundamental math concepts encountered every day. These are the concepts often presented during the first eight years of school. The instruction assumes a reading level of fourth grade or higher and begins with problem-solving strategies and whole number computation. The instruction progresses through fractions, decimals, measurement, geometry, data analysis, and probability. It does not include algebraic concepts. The course intergrates the use of estimation and calculator skills throughout the instruction.

The series teaches how to identify and define problems, select appropriate problem-solving strategies, compute solutions and check the reasonableness of solutions. Math concepts are presented through video segments featuring concrete examples explained by experienced math teachers.

The instruction is expanded through interactive computer books and reinforced through practice problems. The approcah takes learners past the traditional computational approach to math and into the application of math concepts in their daily lives.

The books reflect the NCTM goals as follows:

1. Mathematics as Problem Solving—-The first book in the series, "Basic Problem Solving," teaches the problem-solving approach. In addition, each of the 700 practice problems throughout the 18 books is explained in detail using a four step problem-solving approach.
2. Mathematics as Reasoning-—Each of the math concepts introduced in the series is presented through a logical sequence of thought. In addition, skills are introduced to enable students to think about problems in broad terms to determine a likely solution prior to calculating a best answer.
3. Number Sense and Numeration-—This theme is introduced in the second book, "Starting Out with Numbers," and revisited as each new concept is introduced.
4. Whole Number Operations-—Three books deal with basic operations and their application to real-world problems: "Starting Out with Numbers","The Other Basic Operations", and "Putting Basic Operations to Work."
5. Whole Number Computation-—The selection and application of appropriate computation techniques is practiced in depth in the fourth book in the series, "Putting Basic Operations to Work." The eighth book, "The Calculator", teaches the appropriate use of the calculator as a problem-solving tool. In addition, an online calculator is available to students in those books where the use of the calculator is desirable.
6. Number Systems and Theory-—Emphasis is placed on the number line, place value, and concepts beyond whole numbers including fractions, decimals, and rational numbers.
7. Fractions and Decimals-—A full book is devoted to each. Math 1,Book 5, "Fractions," deals with the basic operations and oncversion of fractions, while the sixth book, "Decimals," treats the basic operations with decimals and their conversion with fractions.
8. Estimation—-Two of the books in the series, "Estimation," and "Monetary Estimation," are devoted specifically to developing the skills and strategies of estimation. In addition, extimation is tied specifically to the correct use of the calculator. The skill is reinforced through carefully designed questions which allow for a range of appropriate answers within a range of tolerance.
9. Measurement--The concepts of measuring length, weight, capacity, time, and temperature are presented in two books, "Measurement," and "Extending the Number Line."
10. Geometry and Spatial Sense—-Math2,Books4 and 5, "Plane Geometry" and "Solid Geometry," discuss the fundamental concepts of geometry and introduce geometric problem-solving.
11. Mathematical Connections-—Each of the concepts presented is connected to rea life through concrete examples and visual images which make the concepts meaningful. The books on "Presenting Percents" and "Consumer Math" emphasize problem-solving skills required on a daily basis.
12. Patterns--The recognition of patterns in mathematics, the interpretation of those patterns and the solving of problems with the use of data are all introduced in Math 2, Book 7, "Patterns."
13. Statistics and Probability—-The last two books in the series, "Data Sampling" and "Statistics and Probability", discuss the correct use of information and the likelihood of outcomes based on available information.
14. Mathematics as Communication--This multimedia series simulates the world in which the learners live and solve problems. It presents information through a wide means of media including video, still images, graphics, charts, graphs, audio narration, print, and computer interaction.

The Video Component

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN MATH 1

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN MATH 2