So, I am thinking about switching. I have heard really good things and my daughter is struggling with Christian Light’s workload. I think she would benefit from one on one time. I am thinking she will probably zoom through level C, but I think it is a good idea to start there. Here is my question…would it be horrible for my almost 6 year old son to start in level B? He has had some math, but not a lot. Is level A extremely necessary to start with? Or could we just spend extra time in those beginning lessons? It just seems more cost effective to do it that way.
What is the difference between the classic & the standard abacus?
I guess I am confused about what to order exactly. Is it better to go with level B, then add-on level C?
And then there is the basic vs the deluxe kit. Is the deluxe kit helpful?
If anyone is interested in buying either CLE math 1, 2 or 3…or Shiller Math Kit 2 – let me know. I am trying to fund my new math path. LOL!
I don’t know if I will make your decision any easier but I can tell you what I know. We use RS math , completed level A with my son & now working our way through level B. I ordered the basic packages, when I needed level B I ordered an “add on” kit. Level A had some fundamental concepts that I guess are unique to RS . I noticed that it is very conceptual , very hands on, requires parent input ( you sit with them one on one ). RS words things differently , it teaches from the whole to the part which was confusing for me to teach at first . For example the common way most of us learn math is from the part to the whole such as 7+2 = 9 . But RS would teach 9 is 7 & 2 – hence going from the whole to the part.
I like the way place value is taught as well. Level B seem to be a brief review from level A for about the 1st 10 lessons. I don’t know if it would he helpful to breeze through level A or if it would be better to do Level B. if you can find Level A to borrow , browse through the concepts presented & see if you feel it’s worth it or just start with level B.
The standard abacus has a plastic frame the classic I think is hardwood.
Have you gone on their website? They may have a placement questionnaire to figure out which level. ( http://www.rightstartmath.com )
We are using Rightstart. We are halfway through level C now and are working on a lot of geometry and memorizing multiplication facts. They have transition lessons that your older child may need if going into level C. You might want to call the Activities for Learning company to ask about it. You would not need transition lessons for starting level B. I started my oldest in level B and spent lots of time on the first lessons to learn the concepts and seeing the numbers without counting. These are done through matching games with cards. They should see 7 = 5 and 2 by seeing 5 blue beads and 2 yellow beads, or five fingers on one hand and 2 fingers on your other hand, or five tally sticks (popsicle sticks) and two tally sticks. This is fundamental to the following lessons and is what is also taught in level A. I am skipping level A with my next child as well. We’ve had some other intro. to math concepts too so I think she will do fine. Save money and go with level B.
If you have a very tight budget, I bought my books used on ebay, homeschoolclassifieds.com, and the RightStart yahoo group. I bought many manipulatives through various sources like Christianbook or Rainbow Resource (they have a smaller, less expensive version of the math balance and doesn’t take up as much space to store). Some manipulatives I did end up buying from RS. They usually have a good sale in December and I bought my math games kit then at a great price.
Thank u so much for the replies! I really appreciate them. I think the best way will be to call and find out what the cheapest method of purchase is. 🙂
Have a lovely day ladies!
Mercy
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