Planning to use TT - what to use in K-2??

[scrapper4life]

So, I need suggestions for what to use in math before TT starts :) I found A+ interactive (Tutorsoft) and it had decent reviews. I'd like to keep with the interactive, audio lesson format. However, I am most concerned with a smooth transition to TT in 3rd grade so I'm open to other things.

[MyLittleBears]

Pretty much any program you choose for k-2 math will be fine as long as it is not independent and includes at least some manipulative to illustrate the concepts. Kids do best with one on one instruction in the earlier years.

[OneStepAtATime]

Agreed. For that age do not use independent material.  They need interaction and scaffolding and consistency and support.  Focus on the concepts first and foremost.  You might look at doing something like CLE if you would prefer something less teacher intense but get and use the TM, get the flash cards and definitely use manipulatives to demonstrate the lessons.  Work through the material WITH your kiddo.  They need to touch and see and hear math.  Play a lot of mathy games.  Watch math based videos off of you tube.  CLE is cheap to try out so it wouldn't be a big investment just to give it a go.

 

https://www.clp.org/store/by_subject/4

 

You could add in something like Prodigy math or CTC math for additional audio/video input but I would not make that the primary means of learning math for a very young child.  

 

FWIW, many 2nd graders are able to use TT 3rd grade level.  Give the placement test when you think your child may be ready, regardless of what the level states on the book.  I would still also incorporate mathy games and practical application math alongside TT, though.

Edited May 12, 2016 by OneStepAtATime

[scrapper4life]

You might look at doing something like CLE if you would prefer something less teacher intense but get and use the TM, get the flash cards and definitely use manipulatives to demonstrate the lessons.  

 

Thank you for the suggestion. I went to the link you added and I didn't see any manipulatives that go with CLE. Do you just add your own? Any suggestions?

[FawnsFunnyFarm]

McRuffy, its almost seamless to move to TT. Definitely do the placement tests for TT though, my kids have all been able to test into TT3 after McRuffy 1st.

 

I will advise you not to let TT take you out of the equation. You still have to make sure they are doing what they should and are truely grasping the concepts. Most times when I hear someone say TT failed them, they thought TT was meant to free them completely from the kid's math. Have them watch the lesson, do the workbook or write every problem out, ask you to check it, have them fix it then enter their answers into the computer. Its not hard or time consuming, and keeps kids from slipping through the cracks of the program.

Edited May 13, 2016 by FawnsFunnyFarm

[Ecclecticmum]

I was about to say Mcruffy 1st would then get you into TT3 quite nicely, but OP beat me to it. I second the McRuffy motion :iagree: :laugh:

[OneStepAtATime]

Thank you for the suggestion. I went to the link you added and I didn't see any manipulatives that go with CLE. Do you just add your own? Any suggestions?

I added my own based on TM suggestions and you tube videos. :)

[FawnsFunnyFarm]

If you are interested in McRuffy, I have K we are done with and will have 1st done eventually. You would need the workbooks and the manipulative kit from McRuffy.com, but I could sell the teachers guides and resource kits reasonably.

[Tidbits of Learning]

I would suggest Miquon for k-2 and transitioning to TT3 whenever you finish Miquon.  It uses the rods as manipulatives and is a strong foundation.