Calvert Math is a spiral curriculum, containing a textbook, workbook, teacher's manual and manipulatives. The workbook is colorful and clearly designed with plenty of writing space.
It is a spiral curriculum: the lessons introduce a concept, and students practice it, combining the new material with previously learned skills.
The teacher's guide has the objectives, materials, warm-up, and skill development for the lessons, and even includes games.
Each Calvert Math course includes a textbook, workbook, Lesson Manual, and grade-appropriate supplies, such as counting blocks, punch-out manipulatives, a compass, or a protractor.
Website: Calvert Math. Prices: $115-125 per grade.
I have two boys (11 & 10). They've used the 5-7th grade Calvert math books and really benefited from them. They are strong on word problems and the basics (although I agree with a previous review the "estimation" questions get too much attention. The books come with quality tests on every chapter as well as an equally good workbook should you need/want extra word problems or the equations. They have good (optional) questions in them for gifted kids that really stretch their minds. The price is a bit high, but I think the presentation of the book makes it appealing. I've also received help from their "help line" when I run into problems. On a scale of 1-10, I'd give Calvert Math a 8-9. I would like more built in review, but as a parent/teacher, I can also work that in myself. I am planning on using the Calvert 8th grade text. I looked at Singapore Math for the 7th & 8th grade texts, but found them rather sterile compared to the 1-6th grade books, which I also think are excellent but not as good as Calvert. Oh, the teacher's manual is also very helpful. I will use Calvert math again when my 3 year old is old enough. Hope this review helps you out.
Why you liked/didn't like the book:
I like it for its thoroughness, word problems, presentation, tests, help from the company, and for good explanations.
I don't like the price. $50-75 would be better.
They also do a free test to determine your child's math level. They don't just give you the math for your child's age, they give you the math for your child's level.
Any other helpful hints:
Have your child take the test to determine his/her level.
John Atella
Time: 2006-2007
Your situation:
Homeschooled daughter using Calvert School of Baltimore, MD from K-5 & 7th grades.
Why you liked/didn't like the book:
The materials seem adequate, but I would not recommend them as superior. There is no emphasis on automaticity of basic math facts. Estimation is used throughout the series. The books do not speak to the student.
Any other helpful hints:
I liked using playing cards to develop computational speed. Divide a card deck in half. The teacher places the first card, then the student plays a second card. The teacher says the sum or product. Then the teacher plays a card and the student does the same. Alternating, the entire deck is used. Doesn't help with the Calvert math, but it is fun.
When you subscribe, you will also receive a GIFT of over 280 FREE math worksheets and sample pages from Math Mammoth books for grades 1-8!
Homeschool Math Newsletter comes out once monthly, and is filled with math teaching articles and tips, Math Mammoth news, and all kinds of little "tidbits" such as math news, interesting links, or humor. The content is equally good for all of us who teach math (not just homeschooling parents).
Note: This is a double opt-in list. You will FIRST get an email that asks you to confirm your email address. PLEASE check also your SPAM/JUNK folder for this confirmation email.
The newsletter service is by Aweber.com. Your email address
will not be shared, sold, or distributed to anyone else.
Copyright 2003-2008 Homeschool math
http://www.homeschoolmath.net/
P.S. ....
Check out these short video clips from my favorite band - Rockabilly.US. They play oldies, Elvis, country, and top hits of the 50s and 60s. It's a show with large band, costumes, choreography, little skits, "Kid Kritters", 6 dancing/singing girls, junior dancer troupe, etc.
"Be My Baby" originally by the Ronettes
Impossible Dream (Elvis song)
Most importantly, the band wants to use the uplifting and energetic music to bring some fun,
happiness and encouragement into people's lives. They're doing it selflessly to help others, and
don't get paid for any of it themselves. And I admire that!
