RS already meets the core standards for each grade level. Meaning that Level B meets the core standards for grade 1. However, it also exceeds those standards. At the end of Level B children are doing 4 digit addition with trading which is not normally taught in 1st grade math curriculum.
Public schools won’t accept curriculum that exceeds the core standards for that grade. And I believe RS is wanting to get their curriculum into the public schools which would be a good thing.
I also know that Dr. Cotter is an avid researcher and is constantly researching and reading. She is very passionate about children learning and enjoying it in the process. So, anything she has to add can only enhance what is already an amazing curriculum.
Personally, I have gained so much understanding from teaching my own children through the levels. It will be interesting to see what more she has added from her research. And anything that makes it easier to teach can only be an added bonus.
We are starting Kindergarten in the fall and I’ve decided on RS, but am having trubouble deciding on an Edition. Since this thread was started a year ago, do any of you have input on the first vs. second edition in hindsite of using both?
I have an opportunity to buy the first edition level A from a guy on Craigslist. I added up how much it would be to fill in the second edition manipulatives and books later. Baisically it would be the same cost as buying the new eddition straight from the website, but I would have both sets of books to compare, this is what I’m leaning towards but want to make the best decision before I go forward.
We will be starting G in the fall and love the first edition (3 kids working through the levels right now). I have not seen the 2nd Edition but have no problem recommending the first edition especially as you’d be getting it at a discount.
We have been using RS2 A since January. I like it very much and can recommend it, but I do not have any experience with the 1st Ed. I like the format and the overall approach. I don’t think you can go wrong with RS Math.
I understand your thinking that for the same cost you could have both sets of books to compare, but that is just the Level A books. Would comparing them create more questions, take more time? Would you be wondering about future levels and how they compare? There are samples on the RS website for comparing the layout of the lessons if that would help you decide.
The 2nd edition will have an extra year of study (Level F). Would it be helpful to have that extra year to fill out your math studies leading up to highschool?