Well, as it sounds like there are probably big changes….
my concerns…
a) how easy will it to be to get the current (soon to be old) worksheets for my younger kids?
b) – if I change to the new version at level D – will there need to be some sort of transition lessons?
c) – if I don’t want to change to the new version – will I be able to get the old versions of the ones we don’t have yet?
In general on the list…. (some share my concerns)
– people are concerned because they really like the current version, and are worried they won’t like the new one. There is a feeling that currently the lessons are taught in an order that matches child development, and are concerned that that might be being changed just to match the “core standards”.
Overall I love RS. There is a part of me excited at possible changes in RS (if they are an improvement) – and part of me is concerned… If I like the new version – well I’ve already got the old versions….
Someone else on the Yahoo group asked RS questions – here are their questions and answers… Answers sound good for those that are already using the 1st edition.
1. Are all levels going to be offered in 2nd edition format at this time, or is only Level B changed for now?
RightStart™ Mathematics Level A, second edition, will be available March 2013. RightStart™ Mathematics Level B, second edition, will be available late fall 2013. RightStart™ Mathematics Levels C through F, second editions, will come out in 2014 and 2015. 2. Will you be offering an exchange for older editions for a lower price or anything of the sort?
No, we will not be offering exchanges. However, RightStart™ Mathematics first edition lessons and worksheets will be available for purchase and will be supported. There are no plans to phase out the current program.
3. Are there samples so I can see the actual layout changes? I’m trying to figure out just how different the 2nd edition is from the first.
Sample lessons views will be available in a few weeks.
4. How compatible would say the 1st edition Level B be going into 2nd edition Level C?
It will not be easy to jump from first edition to second edition as they will line up differently. If you have a child starting in Level A, you have a choice to make: first edition or second edition. If you have a child going into Level C, you only one choice: first edition. If you have a child going into Level B, there is a choice to make.
I think that if you already have the Level A and Level B, first edition, I would continue to stay with the first edition track and keep the younger kids on that track too. You have the books and manipulatives, we have the worksheets available, and you know how this works. That might be easier on your brain!
I hope this helps. Have a great day and play a math card game!
Thanks Suzukimom! I already have A and B so it is makes me feel better that I can continue with the first edition. It will be interesting to see what they are changing.
Just the fact that it “lines up with core standards” makes me nervous. We’ve talked time and time again on the Yahoo group how it purposely doesn’t follow the “standards” set by traditional schools and why. I am so glad we will still be able to get the 1st editions, though! That does make me feel a lot better, and also seeing the samples will help a lot, too.
Well, as my oldest 2 are in Level C, and will probably do Level D starting in the Fall (2013) and Level E starting Fall 2014 – and G in 2015…. so the new editions wouldn’t be out in time for us anyway…. and so I’d keep the younger kids in what we already have. (There isn’t currently a level F – I wonder if that was a typo, or if the new version will have a level F.)
I’m mainly glad that I’ll still be able to get the worksheets.
I’m also wondering how to deal with the fact that Canada no longer has a penny with the money lessons…….
I’m a bit worried too! Even though my son is first grade we started off with level a to get used to it but we supplement right start with other math workbooks, etc. weare almost ready for level b in two weeks and I have a friend who is willing to sale me her unused first edition level b! Would it be a good idea to stay with the first edition or the new! Now I’m infused!
I would stay with the first edition. you have already done level A, so are familiar with the style. You can get an unused level B, and you are about ready to start. (Level B edition 2 isn’t due out until fall). RS says they are going to support the first edition, including worksheet and lesson book availability. And it is a proven method.
I am curious about the new edition that is coming out…. (especially the new research) but I do suspect the main reason for the change it is to align itself with the core standards – and most of the existing experienced RS users do not feel that is necessary (and probably not even desirable.)
Yes, I have wondered if it was driven from their “school program” – which I understand is the same as the homeschool one, except the covers say the grade….