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Hi all,

I just received the 1A set of Discovering Mathematics and I really like the looks of it. I'm interested in hearing, however, from persons who have actually used the material. I would like to know how it's going?!

I'm guessing no one has used this. I do have questions if Carrie logs in and sees this...

I am getting ready to begin the 1A book with my son. How do you recommend scheduling the lessons and are you recommending a particular set-up? For example, a math notebook or journal? Are there any parts of lessons that you feel are not necessary? Do you feel the optional workbook is a necessity? If so, how often and how much? Finally, how much time do you feel a child should spend on these lessons? When we have questions about problems is there a website that you recommend to go to for assistance?

Thanks so much.

Florence,

I'm just back from Arlington and catching up slowly on the board, so I appreciate your patience in hearing back from me. Discovering Mathematics is a new program, even in Singapore. It is considered the replacement in Singapore for New Elementary Math. It is my understanding that NEM is no longer being published in Singapore. DM is about two years old even in Singapore, so it will have less feedback than the New Elementary Math Series which was its predecessor.

We will be scheduling Discovering Mathematics within Revival to Revolution (on up). I too like the looks of it, but we won't get to it with my second son until the end of his next school year, as he's still in 6A/6B. It appears to be much more similar to the Primary Mathematics Series than any of the other programs offered in Singapore.

At this point, we are looking at the workbook as optional, and only necessary if you feel your child needs additional challenge beyond what is covered in the DM 1A/1B. The Workbook is only used at the end of each unit/chapter for additional work and review. It does not have daily lessons. Our plan with our own son is to omit it.

We are looking toward dividing each lesson into two parts, taking two days to cover it. This pacing will allow for the student to finish A/B by year-end. We're thinking that the parent should help the child go through the examples and talk through them and then begin some of the provided practice work. In the "lesson" part each problem has a follow-up to make sure the child understood the process. That will be very key.

We're thinking that the Teacher's Guide/Key does a good job of giving a complete line-by-line solution for each problem being solved so that is a huge help in giving guidance with the problems. You are welcome to post on the board if you hit a snag, or you may post on the Singapore Math forum too.

Blessings,
Carrie