Math Curriculum

An ideal math curriculum for kids is one that gives the kids a complete understanding of math concepts and skills, so that they have a solid rooting in math. A strong foundation in math in these elementary school years is essential for inspiring a positive attitude towards the subject as the child advances through middle school for higher education.

Thus, irrespective of whether you are planning a homeschool math curriculum or mathematics programs for kindergarten and elementary schools, you should opt for a program that is broad in its approach. It should be a curriculum that emphasizes more on the practical application of math (instead of basic arithmetic and formulated maths), infusing logical sense, practicality in an individual.

Adjudged from this angle, an effective math curriculum for kids should essentially incorporate the following aspects of math:

Numbers and Applications
Being able to identify a number or to write it down is not enough; kids should also be able to associate with the meaning, the sense a numeral conveys. The representational aspect of numbers helps children grasp the very essence of number theory. Once kids are familiar with the representative aspect of numbers, children easily pick up place value, face value and even the many applications of numbers.

Algebra
A child’s introduction to algebra in this elementary stage should revolve round simple activities like the ability to sort and order objects (or numbers). Identification and simulation of simple patterns, etc., give kindergarteners their fair share of experience in algebra. These basic math guidelines help children tackle the complex algebra of middle school.

Geometry
Homeschool and kindergarten math curriculum geometry is as much about basic shapes as about spatial concepts. 2-D, 3-D drawings of geometrical figures (also models) introduce children to the space-concept, giving them a strong foundation in co-ordinate geometry.

Measurement
This involves nurturing the measuring skills in kids. A practical math skill to acquire, children are taught to measure time, money, weight, height, temperature, capacity, distance, etc. it is utility-wise most vital.

Data Analysis and Probability
Application-wise it is a crucial aspect of the elementary math curriculum. Organizing and correlating data / information together with their representation enhances the logical sense of the kids and this eventually proves very beneficial for them.

Incorporation of all these basic concepts in the elementary math curriculum will literally make it an all-embracing course, which punched with activities, games and projects can make mathematics a lively subject children will be passionate about.