Math Analogies
Daegan uses Math U See as the core, or ‘spine’ of his math learning, and we use other books and materials, flashcards, play games, he helps cook, etc. Today we started a new resource, in keeping with my focus on thinking skills: _Math Analogies_ beginner workbook, from the Critical Thinking Company:
It was a huge hit with Daegan, who seems naturally drawn to riddles and puzzles—just like his parents. He was a bit concerned at first, and quite insistent that he didn’t know what an analogy was. I kept insisting that he did know, he just didn’t know the word and symbolism, and proved it to him by working through the teaching examples they provided. Daegan was able to do them right away; he could “see” the answer:
He then worked through the first page on his own, thoroughly enjoying this type of puzzle. I am very pleased with this resource so far: these questions and flexible reasoning skills employed are timeless, the pages are perforated for easy removal, and the answers are in the back. Highly recommended if you are looking for something a bit out of the ordinary for math / critical thinking / reasoning skills, or if you have a child who enjoys visual puzzles. Here’s Daegan’s work from today:
January 14th, 2010 at 11:38 am
I was looking into this one also ~ looks pretty neat. I think I might give it a try for Vivian. I’ve heard good things about Math U See, too. I just need to sit down and order them.
January 14th, 2010 at 3:01 pm
This looks like a great way to introduce “algebra” to very small children in a very visual and meaningful way. I also love Singapore Math and Singapore is typically ranked 1 or 2 in the world for highest math scores. The workbook series is also intuitive and visual. I post on the workbooks on my blog http://pragmaticmom.com. I have included some related articles on Singapore Math scores, and the benefits of teaching math to very young children (helps with dyslexia).