I am thinking of using the reading program with my dd. I saw that they also offered a math program. My dd has problems with rapid naming. I was wondering if this might help. Thanks. Jan P.
Re: No, but I'm curious about them too
I began begun using both the GL reading and math programs with my 10 y/o dd at the start of the school year. She enjoys both of them. In fact, her older (13) non-dd sister has also wanted to use them — which to me is a great sign! My dd has not had a problem with the reading program — she continues to progress nicely and enjoys doing them. She has had trouble with the math, certainly not progressing nearly as well as with the reading. After watching her and talking with her, it appears that she isn’t visualizing the numbers, which makes the addition difficult. She still wants to use her fingers (starting with the largest number and counting until she has “added on” the next number). This has truly affected her ability to become more fluent. I’m combining a little bit of the Cloud 9 and Landmark math programs to try and work on the visualization. I’m really new at this, so it’s a bit of a challenge. I’d certainly take any advice offered!
What exactly does the math program entail?
I have seen samples of the Great Leaps Reading Program, but not the math program.
What does the child do? Did you get the whole program, or just the first one (ADD/SUB up to 9)?
I wish the Great Leaps would add some samples to their website. I am going to get their reading program, and I would like to know in the next couple of days what their math program is like.
Thanks,
Jan P.
Re: What exactly does the math program entail?
Their program is broken up into segments. There is addition/subtraction to 9, addition/subtraction to 18, multiplication/division to 9 and multiplication/division to 18? Forgive me, I’m at work and don’t have the books in front of me. The child is given 60 math problems. For instance, x + 0 or x + 1, or a combination. They then have 60 seconds to complete all the problems correctly. If they do, they “Leap” or move to the next page. We make the “Leap” a big deal — stickers or something to indicate success. I really like the program, and strongly recommend it. My daughter enjoys them, which always makes it a plus!
Re: Thank you. (nt)
Dr. Cecil Mercer wrote the math program - I did the fluency work with it. I also helped with some of the hierarchial arrangements. Simply, the objective is to move from the concrete to the abstract - mastering understanding first. I have worked for years on calculation fluency, but haven’t introduced them as a product because our classrooms tend to stay on calculation while avoiding math. We’ll mail samples on request but to this point haven’t put samples on the website because a sample page really doesn’t tell you much. When we mail a sample, it also includes a bit of explanation.
As with Great Leaps Reading, the math has been designed to be easily implemented as supplemental materials for children having considerable difficulties.
Ken Campbell
n/p