Kitchen Table Math....

Have you heard about Dr. Wright's Kitchen Table Math!?  In my math research frenzy, I came across this series of books.  I was fortunate in that our local public library was willing to order book 2 & 3 in the series for their collection.  The books just came in and I am thrilled to be able to check them out!

"Dr. Wright" is Chris Wright, a mathematician, math teacher, and father of two, whom he and his wife homeschooled for a period of time.  "He has a Ph.D. in mathematics from Stanford University and was an assistant professor at Duke University."  The books were born out of Dr Wright's love for math and his experience home educating, tutoring, and teaching.  They provide a series of clear easy to follow steps and activities "that illustrate the methods of basic mathematics and help develop a child's mathematical skills".

Book one covers quantities up to 100, addition, subtraction, multiplication,  division, fractions, equations, geometry, reasoning, measurements, time, and money.  It is geared for teaching students PreK - 3rd grade.

Book two covers counting and place value, adding and subtracting, multiplying, dividing, number theory, fractions, number sense, number bases, and ancient number systems.  It is geared for teaching students from grades 1-7.

Book three covers concepts beyond arithmetic such as equations and inequalities, word problems, reasoning, probability and counting, statistics and graphing, geometry, measurements, and money.  Again, it is geared for teaching students in grades 1-7.

All three books have a chapter each on manipulatives, learning games and activities, and other resources.  This series really takes you through elementary math in a hands on, easy to understand way.  If you feel a workbook is warranted for written practice, Dr. Wright does suggest MCP Mathematics.  He states, "The pages of problems in those books are presented in a logical progression, with lots of examples of each kind of problem". 

I am impressed by the ease of which Dr. Wright explains the various concepts.  In 2-4 pages, he gives a concept objective, references prior sections needed as prerequisites,  and shows how to demonstrate, teach, and practice each concept.  There are gray boxes with "Math Words", "Rules", and suggested "Games" throughout.   

I am seriously considering purchasing Dr. Wright's Kitchen Table Math series. I think these books are great whether you would want to use them for reference or as your child's elementary math program. 

If you have any experience with Dr.Wright's Kitchen Table Math, please comment below.  I'd love to hear about it!