Homeschool Math

Should you worry about teaching homeschool math? Many families judge the effectiveness of their teaching by their child’s math and reading performance. Although, I think education consists of much more than the ability to solve equations and read proficiently, these skills are essential for everyday adult life and therefore a priority for homeschool families.

When you think of math education, the first things that comes to mind are probably fundamental skills. (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) If you have an older child, you probably think of geometry, algebra or maybe even calculus. Within these specific disciplines, there are three different aspects that should all be included in your teaching. Make sure your home school math program covers each of these. You can think of them as the “what to teach."


MEMORIZATION of arithmetic and geometric facts, rules, formulas, and procedures. For example, you learn how to multiply fractions. Children must memorize the basics before advancing to higher level skills. You don't want them spending time figuring out simple operations when they should be focusing on the higher level analysis. Make sure your homeschool math program provides plenty of practice on "the facts." Find out why educational math games are a great way to provide extra practice on the facts.



UNDERSTANDING of facts, rules, formulas, and procedures. For example, you learn why you invert and multiply when dividing fractions. This should be taught as the student is ready. Manipulatives (blocks, Cheerios, poker chips) are often effective in explaining the “whys” of fundamental skills. They provide a concrete model for an abstract idea which is great especially for young learners.



APPLICATION of facts, rules, formulas, and procedures in practical ways, sometimes this is called problem solving. A homeschool math program should provide plenty of opportunites for application. For example, you learn that to figure out how much sugar to use in a halved recipe that originally calls for 3/4 cup of sugar. Problems should be challenging and level appropriate.

Now you know the "what to teach" find out how to teach home school math.

For some "real life math" ideas, click here.

The Best Math Brain Teasers- books and websites.

Decisions! A Stock Market Money Management Game Develop math---and critical thinking---skills with this game of buying-and-selling strategy. Make transactions, compute and evaluate results, track records---and increase your client's wealth! (Meets NCTM standards for whole number figuring.) Includes game board with spinner, 4 playing pieces, account record pad, currency, chance cards, and instructions. For two to four players, ages 10 and up.

Digitz: The Multiplication Machine Make math practice fun with this "beat the clock" portable electronic activity center! Your kids can choose from five self-directed games---multiples, facts, missing factors, factor pairs, or sequencing---that reinforce multiplication concepts. When they press the fast-action answer paddles, motivating lights and sound effects provide instant feedback. Requires three C batteries or AC adapter (not included). Ages 8 and up.

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