CORAC Education Card: Mathematics

Posted on February 22, 2023
  1. Home
  2. /
  3. Education
  4. /
  5. CORAC Education Card: Mathematics
There’s no one way of doing things; there are many roads. As Christians, we strive to be the people God made us to be. Don’t feel pressured to do things the same way as anyone else.

Before formal instruction in math, primary math (“number sense”) should be learned similarly to the way a toddler picks up their spoken language. In a rich home environment, by participating in a family’s everyday activities, children naturally learn many basic math concepts through experience, conversations and games. Later on, they more easily learn the written syntax of math, because they have already internalized and are using the basic concepts. See this article for info:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/freedom-learn/201003/when-less-is-more-the-case-teaching-less-math-in-school

Avoid Common Core and “new math”

Most math curricula fall into one of two approaches: “Mastery” (sequential introduction of new concepts once the current one is mastered) or “Spiral” (frequent introduction of new concepts and repeated reviews of previous concepts). Some students will learn better with one or the other approach: ask an experienced homeschool mentor, see https://www.homeschoolhere.com/spiral-vs-mastery-math/, or search online to help decide which would work best for your student.

If possible, all students should gain proficiency through Algebra. 

Past Algebra, most people only need to be competent in consumer math, practical math, and problem-solving

Further math study can be pursued according to a student’s anticipated higher education, vocation or career path. For example, Geometry is useful for many technical, vocational, and professional careers. 

Mathematics concepts are best learned in the following sequence:

Primary Math (first math concepts)

  • Arithmetic
  • Pre-Algebra
  • Algebra I and II
  • Geometry (sometimes studied between Algebra I and II)
  • Pre-Calculus
  • Trigonometry
  • Calculus
  • Statistic

Primary Mathematics

  • Math picture books, e.g. “Sir Cumefrence and the…”
  • Measuring, weighing, cooking, counting, money, telling time, recognizing numbers, etc.
  • Games that involve math, card games, logic games, puzzles, etc.

Consumer and Practical Mathematics

  • Dave Ramsey or other personal finance homeschool course
  • Tracking spending, making and using budgets, comparing prices, etc.
  • Crafts: sewing, carpentry, woodworking, etc. build problem-solving skills
  • Life of Fred math series: new concepts are introduced in response to “real-world” situations in the storyline

Textbook Options

  • Mastery: Math-U-See, Singapore, Modern Curriculum Press, Jacob’s, Foerster, Seton
  • Spiral: Horizons, Saxon
  • Other: Life of Fred (literature-based; developmentally appropriate; covers all math, primary through college-level Calculus and Statistics)

Other Recommendations

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

About

The Education Team is tasked with establishing a nationawide network of experienced homeschoolers for primary, secondary, university and professional levels of education…
learn more

Contribute Resources

Have a helpful, original resource you want to contribute to this Education section?
Submit a resource

Contact

Please contact your Regional Coordinator first about Education matters. To get in touch with CORAC’s National Education Team leader:
Send email

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Check out these related posts.

________

Lord of the World

Lord of the World

Why this book? Lord of the World, by Monsignor Robert Hugh Benson, was intended as a parable, but since its publication in 1906 has proved rather...

How to Start Homeschooling (Video)

How to Start Homeschooling (Video)

Think you can't homeschool? Yes you can! Find out how to get started with this introductory education chat presented by CORAC's Mick of Region 6 and...

A Home Education Framework

A Home Education Framework

By Jan C. In the confusion that rules our world today, there are MANY educational approaches and ideas. How do we know which approaches and ideas to...

Who We Are >

Watch the videos here to learn more about CORAC - the guys that do stuff!

What We Do >

Learn how we're defending the tradtional values of Faith, Family & Freedom!

Who Can Join >

We're open to all people of goodwill who support tradtional values.

Your Region >

We're organized by regions from coast to coast in the U.S. and beyond.

The Next Step >

We make it easy to connect with like-minded people and get involved in your community.

Learn, teach & collaborate with a wealth of downloads, classes and conversations.
Learn how we're defending the tradtional values of Faith, Family & Freedom!
Attend one of Charlie's free talks in your area.  Please Note:  You must be a registered site user to view meeting specifics.
Find an upcoming event online or in your area and see how we're actively working for renewal around the country.
Please utilize these extensive resources before contacting us for tech support.
CORAC dad hats aren't just for dads. They've got a low profile with an adjustable strap and curved visor.
Our t-shirts feel soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. They're comfortable and flattering for both men and women.

A good long-sleeved shirt is a fashion must-have. Add this wardrobe essential to your collection, and have a great go-to option for a casual look.

Whether you're drinking your morning coffee, evening tea, or something in between – this mug's for you! It's sturdy and glossy with a vivid print that'll withstand the microwave and dishwasher.
Corps of Renewal and Charity (CORAC) is a non-profit, tax-exempt, 501(c)(4) organization. Donations to CORAC are not tax-deductible.