RMCA Lending Library Curriculum Descriptions for Grades K-8 for 2015-2016
The following web sites are useful for researching a variety of curriculum.
Cathy Duffy Reviews http://www.cathyduffyreviews.com
Rainbow Resource Center http://www.rainbowresource.com
Key:
Answer Key: Generally answers to a workbook, may be included or separate from the workbook or textbook
Book: Either a nonfiction or fiction book
Manipulatives: Hands-on teaching aids available for Saxon Math, Singapore or Math U See math curriculums
Solution Manuals: For many of our Math programs, a manual that shows how problems are solved. Answer keys generally only show the end result.
Teachers Manual (TM): Accompanying guide for teacher use
Textbook: Non-consumable for student use and returnable
Workbook: Usually a consumable for student use and not returnable
UNIT STUDIES (limited quantities)
TITLE
Five in a Row
by Five in a Row
Publishing
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
K-3
AVAILABLE
Visual, auditory and kinesthetic learners and teachers will all benefit from Five in a Row‘s variety of lessons
and activities, which are carefully laid out, and available for you to choose whichever one fits your schedule
for the day. Includes pronunciation guides to foreign words or phrases, background information on history,
geography, art and science lessons, facts, figures, and activity suggestions for a wonderful variety of hands-on TM
Books
learning experiences. Uses “real” books as the foundation.
Website: http://fiveinarow.com/five-in-a-row/
Beyond Five in a
Row
by Five in a Row
Publishing
3-7
Also based on quality literature and focused on enjoying the learning experience, the books chosen are
chapter books rather than picture books, and half of the books covered are biographies. Each book unit is
designed to take six to eight weeks to complete and there are three volumes of four units each and one
additional unit – enough schooling material for two to three years, depending on your student.
TM
Books
Website: http://fiveinarow.com/beyond-five-in-a-row/
LANGUAGE ARTS (limited quantities)
Language Arts Combined
TITLE
Intermediate
Language Lessons
by Lost Classics Book
Company
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
4-7
AVAILABLE
Designed for teaching 4th, 5th and 6th grades. Intermediate Language Lessons includes a broad range of lessons
that encompass every aspect of teaching English including: literature and poetry studies, letter writing, creating
Book
an outline, grammar and word usage, composition, memorization and oral presentation, debate and dictation..
TM
Website: http://www.lostclassicsbooks.com/catalog/3
1
Primary Language
Lessons
by Lost Classics Book
Company
2-4
Emma Serl makes liberal use of writings by the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson and Samuel Taylor Coleridge
as well as fables, folklore and maxims. Using reproductions of prominent paintings, Miss Serl trains children in
observation and discussion. A unique approach to teaching oral language skills, this curriculum helps train
Book
children in art appreciation as well. The exercises cover proper English usage, composition, punctuation,
TM
memorization, speaking, letter writing, dictation, reading and etiquette in writing.
Website: http://www.lostclassicsbooks.com/catalog/3
Shurley English
Grammar and
Composition
1-7
by Shurley Instructional
Materials
Competent writing begins with understanding correct sentence structure, expands to paragraphs, and results in
the enjoyment and satisfaction of well-written essays, reports, and letters. Grammar, language skills, and
writing are taught in each chapter. The teacher’s manual is scripted (tells you what to say) so that you know
how to teach the technique. Shurley English give students the concrete steps necessary to relate the
Workbook
following: a definition to a concept, a concept to a skill practice, a skill practice to writing and writing to
TM & CD
effective speaking.
Website Levels 1-6: https://www.shurley.com/?3f9b06c8f52a14bd1250a5df07619
Website Level 7: https://www.shurley.com/?3f9b06c8f52a14bd1250a5df0761a
Phonics/Reading
TITLE
All About Reading
by All About Learning
Press
Barton Reading &
Spelling System
by Susan Barton
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
Level 1 A fun and engaging program that starts with essential pre-reading skills and continues on to teach all five key
K-1
components of reading. Your student will learn new concepts, including letter sounds, phonograms, consonant
teams, blending, syllables, sight words, consonant blends, plurals, compound words, and much more. Every
Level 2
component of reading is taught: decoding (phonics and structural analysis), vocabulary, fluency, and
1-2
comprehension.
Level 3
Website and Placement Tests: http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-reading/
2-3
The Barton Reading & Spelling System is a one-on-one tutoring system that will greatly improve the
spelling, reading, and writing skills of children, teenagers or adults who struggle due to dyslexia or a learning
disability. Please watch the video on the website for more information.
10
levels
Since everyone begins with the first level and progresses at their own pace this is the only curriculum that is
available year round.
AVAILABLE
Workbook
TM
Readers
Kit w/CD, letter
tiles, etc.
TM
DVD
Worksheets
Website: http://www.bartonreading.com/
Explode the Code
by Educators Publishing
Service
Levels
1-8
Grades
K-3
Helps your student build the essential literacy skills needed for reading success: phonological awareness,
decoding, vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, and spelling.
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=explode+the+code
or http://eps.schoolspecialty.com/products/details.cfm?seriesonly=1460M
Workbook
TM
2
Ordinary Parent’s
Guide to Teaching
Reading
K-3
This is user-friendly and easy to follow — supplying you with everything you need to teach reading in one
book, including scripted lessons that tell you exactly what to say to your student.
TM
CD
Flashcards
Magnet board set
by Peace Hill Press
Website: http://peacehillpress.com/the-ordinary-parents-guide-reading/
Riggs phonogram
flashcards
Set of 71 Phonogram Cards with detailed teacher instructions for use and dictation of the phonograms and the
script for letter proper letter formation for correct English spelling and initial letter formation on the back of
each phonogram card. Uses a multi-sensory, direct and Socratic teaching methods. Used in our K-2
Flashcards
classrooms.
K-3
by The Riggs Institute
Website: http://www.riggsinst.org/
Teach Your Child to
Read in 100 Easy
K-3
Lessons
A complete, step-by-step program that shows parents simply and clearly how to teach their children to read.
Twenty minutes a day is all you need, and within 100 teaching days your child will be reading on a solid
second-grade reading level. One hundred lessons, fully illustrated and color-coded for clarity, give your child
TM
the basic and more advanced skills needed to become a good reader
by Simon and Schuster
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/002274/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
Writing/Composition
TITLE
IEW
by Institute for Excellence
in Writing
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
3-8
AVAILABLE
IEW provides the structure that students need to develop confidence in the writing process, while gradually
guiding them toward greater independence and creativity. Students learn nine structural models (note taking,
writing paragraphs, stories, simple reports, writing from pictures, research reports, creative writing, essays,
and critiques) to help them organize any type of composition. Additionally, stylistic techniques (strong verbs,
quality adjectives, sentence openers, and more) are taught incrementally to gently move students from the
Workbook
basics into more sophisticated writing. Method is taught in our 5th-8th grade classes.
Other thematic workbooks are available to use at home to reinforce what is being taught at school.
Website: http://iew.com/
Spectrum Writing
by Spectrum Publishing
K-8
Each book provides an overview of the writing process, as well as a breakdown of the essential skills that
build good writing. It features easy-to-understand directions, is aligned to national and state standards, and
also includes a complete answer key.
Workbook
Website:
http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=spectrum+writing#/?_=1&filter.subject_name=Curricu
lum&page=1
3
Combines the best elements of old-fashioned writing instruction with innovative new educational methods—and
explains why so many writing programs fail.
The Complete
Writer
by Peace Hill Press
Writing with Ease
1-4
Writing with Skill
5-8
Writing with Ease is designed for elementary-aged writers and for older students who still struggle. It builds a
sturdy foundation of basic skills for grades 1–4 (or levels 1–4 for the older student who needs more work) all in the
same book. Diagnostic tests within the book will help the parent to determine where the child needs to start and
which workbook the child will need. You can use the text by itself as a guide, then choose your own copy work
and dictation or use the workbook. Each workbook covers one grade.
Writing with Skill combines time-tested classical techniques--the imitation and analysis of great writers--with
original composition exercises in history, science, biography, and literature.
Writing with Ease
Workbook
Textbook
Writing with Skill
Workbook
TM
Website: http://peacehillpress.com/writing/
Write on Target
by Show What You Know
Publishing
1-6
Offers a step-by-step process to improve students’ writing skills using research-based graphic organizers.
More than 60 writing prompts review the five communication processes of narration, description, directions,
explanation, and persuasion. Students learn eleven modes of writing including summary, fictional narrative,
personal experience narrative, informational report, letters, invitations, thank-you notes, letters to the editor,
directions, persuasive papers, and journaling. We especially love the rubrics at the end of each chapter that
gives your student a checklist to compare their writing to.
Workbook
Website:
http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=write+on+target+workbook#/?_=1&filter.category_na
me=English%2FWriting%3E%3EWRITING%20PROGRAMS&page=1
Writing Detective
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Students act as investigative reporters writing articles for a local newspaper. To write the article, students
must use higher-order thinking skills to synthesize the available information. Before writing, students
complete an outline detailing who, what, when, where, and how or why. The activities develop writing,
Level 1 reading, higher-order thinking, and organization skills. Sample answers and a simple scoring rubric are
3-5
provided to making grading easier.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/writing-detective.html
Writing Strands
by National Writing
Institute Publications
2-8
Uses a step-by-step, structured format to help students master composition techniques. Throughout the nine
levels the series organizes writing into four strands: creative, argumentative, report and research, and
expository writing. Success with the four strands of writing is contingent on how well students understand the
following foundational skills, taught in the lower levels of Writing Strands: creative, basic, organizational,
and descriptive writing. Once the students have mastered these fundamental skills, they are ready to apply
Workbook
them to the abstract subject matter of the upper-level books. The books also allow students to learn the
mechanics of writing: syntax, spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Website: http://www.writing-strands.com/books.asp
4
Grammar
TITLE
All in One English
Series
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
6-8
by Garlic Press
Daily Language
Review
1-8
by Evan Moor
Daily Paragraph
Editing
Teaches the important English skills of capitalization, punctuation, and all eight parts of speech.
Website: http://www.garlicpress.com/home/gar/page_72/all_in_one_english.html
Focused language arts practice to develop strong language skills of reading comprehension, vocabulary/word
study, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, usage and reference skills.
Workbook
Website: http://www.evan-moor.com/p/175/Daily-Paragraph-Editing
Easy Grammar covers Grades 2-6. Easy Grammar Plus is ideal for 7th grade and older. Concepts are taught
within sequential grammar units, beginning with prepositions. Using this approach, sentences are stripped to
Plus 7+ basics, enabling students to understand subject and verb and to build throughout each text.
Website: http://www.easygrammar.com/
First Language
Lessons
by Peace Hill Press
Language Mechanic
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Workbook
Covers grade-level skills in the areas of punctuation and capitalization, language usage, and spelling.
2-8
2-6
by Easy Grammar Systems
Workbook
Website: www.evan-moor.com/p/140/Daily-Language-Review
by Evan Moor
Easy Grammar
AVAILABLE
1–4
4-7
2nd grade:
Workbook
All other grades:
Workbook
TM
Levels 1 & 2:
TM/Workbook
Provides a scripted guide (tells the teacher what to say) that uses the classical techniques of memorization,
copy work, dictation, and narration to develop your child's language ability in the formative elementary years. CD
Levels 3 & 4:
Website: http://peacehillpress.com/grammar/
Workbook
TM
Uses fun examples and logical reasons to eliminate the confusion students often feel while learning the rules
of language mechanics. Each activity demonstrates and reinforces why following the logical rule is
important. Lessons begin with a "grabber"—a humorous miscommunication that results when a rule is
broken. Examples are followed by an explanation of the specific rule, the logic behind it, then guided and
independent practice exercises. Includes answers, a glossary, and a compare/contrast organizer.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/the-language-mechanic.html
5
Spelling and Vocabulary
TITLE
All About Spelling
by All About Learning
Press
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
1-8
AVAILABLE
A comprehensive, mastery-based spelling program that incorporates Orton-Gillingham methods with the
latest research on how students learn. Includes seven levels and multisensory lessons using sight, sound and
touch. It teaches one concept at a time and has continual review built in to the lessons.
Website: http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-spelling
Sequential Spelling
by AVCO Spelling and
Research Foundation
Spelling Workout
by Modern Curriculum
Press
1-8
A seven-level, mastery based spelling program that teaches the patterns of English spelling. The sequences
are not based on grade level but on building from easy words to advanced words as from all, tall, stall, install,
installment, to installation. Most students should start with Level 1.
TM
Student Packet
Kit w/CD, letter
tiles, etc.
TM
Website: http://www.avko.org/sequentialspelling.html
Placement Test: http://www.avko.org/free/Rough%20Placement%20Test%20for%20SS.pdf
1-8
Leads students from simple sound-letter relationships to more complex spelling patterns. Students learn
spelling skills based on phonics through cross-curricular reading passages, practice, and writing activities. It
has flexible lessons and activities, including fun riddles and puzzles.
Workbook
TM
Website:
http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=spelling+workout+2001
Vocabulary
TITLE
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
AVAILABLE
WordBuild® Foundations Series lays the foundation for the bridge from phonics to comprehension.
Mastery of phonics helps students 'sound out' unfamiliar words. The study of morphics helps students 'mean
out' unfamiliar words. Exercises teach students to see that words are composed of morphemes, or individual
units of meaning. Focuses on the prefixes and suffixes and builds on students' prior knowledge by attaching
them to words they already know. Grades 3+
Word Build
by Dynamic Literacy
Foundations
Wordly Wise 3000
by Educators Publishing
Service
3-7+
Workbook
WordBuild® Elements Series is designed for students who have a mastery of phonics, and are exposed to
academic text in the content areas. Students will learn how English words are built and strategies to determine TM
pieces of meaning embedded in words. Exercises teach students to break complex words into prefixes, roots,
and suffixes while they learn the meanings of the most frequently used Latin & Greek roots by manipulating
word parts. Grades 5+
Website: http://www.dynamicliteracy.com/products.php
The words chosen were selected to expand critical grade level vocabulary and improve reading
comprehension. Words from each lesson are commonly encountered in grade-level literature, content-area
reading, textbooks, and tests including the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Five days of activities for each word list.
2-12
Website:
Workbook
Answer Key
http://eps.schoolspecialty.com/products/details.cfm?series=2818M&utm_source=ww3000_free_site
&utm_medium=teachers&utm_campaign=ww3000
6
Reading/Literature (limited quantities)
Fiction and
nonfiction books
If your curriculum requires a list of books and you would like to know if they are available to borrow, please
submit your list and a copy of the catalog page. We are unable to order anything religious in nature.
Novel study guides
If your curriculum requires a novel study guide and you would like to know if it is available to borrow, please
Workbook
submit your list. We are unable to order anything religious in nature.
Books
Reading/Comprehension (limited quantities)
TITLE
McCall-Crabbs
Standard Test
Lessons in Reading
by Teachers College Press
GRADE COMMENTS:
LEVEL
A 2-4
B 3-5
C 4-6
D 5-7
E 6-8
F 7-12
AVAILABLE
Practice reading comprehension and test taking with this series of reading tests. Each book contains
a total of sixty short (half-page or less) reading selections followed by eight multiple choice
questions. These books employ a reading level determination called a G-score (not a standard
evaluation method) with which you can estimate your student’s reading level. It is based on the
selection and how many of the eight questions were answered correctly. To properly estimate,
Book
however, you must give your child a three-minute time period with which to complete the reading
Answer Key
and the test. Reading selections are both fictional and non-fictional accounts. The answer key
contains an introduction, directions for use, an explanation of the G-score system and answers for all
six books.
Website: https://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=mccall+crabbs
Reading Detective
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Beg. 3-4
A1 5-6
B1 7-8
RX
6-12
Critical thinking activities develop the analysis, synthesis, and vocabulary skills students need for exceptional
reading comprehension. Activities are especially effective at helping students understand more challenging
reading concepts such as drawing inferences, making conclusions, determining cause-and-effect, and using
context clues to define vocabulary. Use every other week for two years.
Workbook
RX is for remedial students, not the next higher workbook after B1
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/reading-detective.html
7
8
9
HANDWRITING AND TYPING
TITLE
GRADE
LEVEL
Cursive Writing
Practice – Inspiring 3-6
Quotes
by Scholastic
COMMENTS:
This collection of 40 quotes motivates students to practice cursive and sparks rich discussions that build
character. Each practice page includes a memorable quote printed in DeNealian script and a lined guide for
copying the quote. The bottom of the page is designed so that students can cut out and collect the favorite
quotes they've copied to create a cursive quote mini-book. Includes famous words from historic figures like
Ben Franklin and Martin Luther King, Jr.
AVAILABLE
Workbook
Website: http://teacherexpress.scholastic.com/cursive-writing-practice-inspiring-quotes-mkt14179
Daily Handwriting
Practice 3-6
Traditional Cursive
by Evan Moor
Monday through Thursday, the weekly subjects for writing exercises range from famous inventors to famous
quotations and from amazing hunters to the water cycle. On Friday, a full-page exercise draws the topic to a
close by reviewing what was learned earlier that week. This book is a useful and effective teaching tool
Workbook
because each letter is introduced and practiced before students are asked to use it.
Website: http://www.evan-moor.com/p/132/daily-handwriting-practice-traditional-cursive
Daily Handwriting
Practice –
K-2
Traditional
Manuscript
Monday through Thursday, the weekly subjects for writing exercises include nutrition, our solar system, pets,
and vehicles. On Friday, a full-page exercise draws the topic to a close by reviewing what was learned earlier
that week. This book is a useful and effective teaching tool because each letter is introduced and practiced
Workbook
before students are asked to use it.
by Evan Moor
Website: http://www.evan-moor.com/p/131/daily-handwriting-practice-traditional-manuscript
The eight-book series has step-by-step drawing instruction and short sentences for manuscript handwriting
practice. Each book is a complete unit study for exploring history, geography, natural science, and social
studies. The handwriting becomes more challenging as the books progress.
Draw Write Now
by Barker Creek
Publishing
K-6
Book 1 On the Farm, Kids and Critters, and Storybook Characters
Book 2 Christopher Columbus, Autumn Harvest, and The Weather
Book 3 Native Americans, North America, and The Pilgrims
Book 4 Polar Regions, The Arctic, The Antarctic
Book 5 The United States, From Sea to Sea, and Moving Forward
Book 6 Animals & Habitats - On the Land, Ponds & Rivers, and Oceans
Book 7 Tropical Forests, Northern Forests, and Forests Down Under
Book 8 Savannahs, Grassland Animals, and Mountains and Deserts
Student book
Workbook
Website: http://www.barkercreek.com/c/draw-write-now
10
Covers key areas in writing using the simplified Zaner-Bloser alphabet models. Frequent review with space
for students to evaluate their writing helps to build confidence in their abilities.
Handwriting Skills
Simplified
1-6
by Essential Learning
Products
Level 1/A Learning Manuscript Writing
Level 3/C Learning Cursive Writing
Level 5/E Mastering Cursive Writing
Level 2/B Improving Manuscript Writing
Level 4/D Improving Cursive Writing
Level 6/F Maintaining Legible Writing
Workbook
Website:
http://shop.essentiallearningproducts.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=handwriting+skills+simplified
Classical Conversations has developed the PreScripts series to reinforce memory work learning for students
old enough to hold a crayon all the way through cursive mastery. We began with history lessons, and since
one of the primary ways grammar students learn is by copying, we combined important ideas and passages
with cursive handwriting and fun art lessons. Young children learn visually and kinesthetically through
tracing, coloring, and drawing.
Prescripts
by Classical
Conversations
K-12
Cursive Letters and Coloring: Medieval to Modern World History (K-2)
Cursive Letters and Coloring: World History (K-2)
Cursive Words and Drawing: Math Terms (K-6)
Cursive Sentences and Art Lessons: American History (2-6)
Cursive Sentences and Art Lessons - Ancient History (2-6)
Cursive Sentences and Art Lessons: Medieval to Modern World History (2-6)
Cursive Passages and Illuminations: Poetry (3-12)
Cursive Passages and Illuminations: American Documents (3-12)
Workbook
Website: http://www.classicalconversationsbooks.com/prescripts.html
Riggs Institute
phonics and
handwriting
instructions
Using the Riggs clock charts (small & large), Riggs phonics cards and handwriting instructions, parents will
have the step by step directions to teach children how to form each letter included on the back of each card.
K-3
This method of handwriting instruction is used in our primary classrooms.
Website: http://www.riggsinst.org/
Mavis Beacon
Teaches Typing
CD, Version 18
by Mavis Beacon
Riggs phonics
cards
Large/small
clock charts
Instructions
A computer program to teach your student(s) typing using a combination of lessons and games.
3-Adult
CD
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/019348/53f855159a1c6f4c1dcfa343
11
MATHEMATICS
If ordering a curriculum you have not used before, please have your child take a placement test.
TITLE:
GRADE
LEVEL
Developing
Number Concepts:
Counting,
K-3
Comparing and
Pattern
by Pearson Learning
COMMENTS:
AVAILABLE
This book makes number concepts come alive for young students by providing hands-on activities that help young
students see and feel math. An excellent math book that builds the foundation for concrete math operations later
on. Comes with manipulatives and is easy to use. Includes organized sets of activites focused on particular
concepts. Limited quantities.
Website: http://www.didax.com/kathyrichardson/DNC/
A multi-sensory, mastery-based program. Levels focus on a specific set of concepts while continuously
reviewing and integrating previous concepts; other math topics are introduced where appropriate.
Math-U-See
by Math-U-See
Saxon Math
by Saxon Publishers
K-12
K-3
Primer-K, Alpha-1st (single digit addition and subtraction), Beta-2nd (multiple-digit addition and subtraction), Workbook/Test
Gamma-3rd (multiplication), Delta 4th (division), Epsilon-5th (fractions), Zeta-6th (decimals and percent), Pre- TM
DVD
Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus.
Blocks, etc.
Website: http://www.mathusee.com/
Placement Test: http://www.mathusee.com/parents/getting-started/placement/
Saxon’s K-3 program is designed to teach basic arithmetic concepts as well as geometry, patterns, time, and
more. Each lesson is scripted (tells you what to say) for the parent. Saxon math is based on the teaching
principles of incremental development, continual practice and review, and cumulative assessment.
Website: http://saxonhomeschool.hmhco.com/en/products/default.htm?level2Code=M0006
Placement Test: http://saxonhomeschool.hmhco.com/HA/correlations/pdf/p/primary_placement.pdf
Saxon Math for 4-12 grades transitions students from manipulatives and worksheets to a textbook approach.
The emphasis in the middle grades is on developing algebraic reasoning as well as geometric concepts.
Lessons include a new concept plus a review of previous concepts, and Investigations give students a more
in-depth treatment of math concepts.
Saxon Math
by Saxon Publishers
4-12
When it lists 5/4 the book is for 4th grade and remedial for 5th grade
Math 5/4, Math 6/5, Math 7/6, Math 8/7, Algebra ½, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Advanced Math, Calculus
K:
TM
no workbook
1-3:
Workbook
TM
Textbook
Tests/Worksheets
Solutions Manual
Website: http://saxonhomeschool.hmhco.com/en/products/default.htm?level2Code=M0006
Placement Test: http://saxonhomeschool.hmhco.com/HA/correlations/pdf/s/SHS_PLT_middlegrades.pdf
12
Singapore Essential
Math, US Edition
by Marshall Cavendish
Education
A series of two books written especially for the kindergarten student that reinforces concepts and essential
skills relevant for this age, enhances their understanding of the things around them, and motivates them to
explore and learn more. There are useful ideas at the bottom of each page for parents to introduce the
concepts concretely before doing the workbook page, and for extending the concept after doing the page.
Each front and back page can constitute a day’s lesson.
K
Workbook A &
B
Please note that we have chosen to use the Essential Math edition for Kindergarten, not the Early Bird
edition.
Website: http://www.singaporemath.com/Essential_Math_s/138.htm
Singapore Math,
Primary
Mathematics
US Edition
1-6
by Marshall Cavendish
Education
The Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition series of elementary math textbooks and workbooks is meant to be
part of a system of learning in which adult supervision and independent practice go hand in hand. The main
feature is the use of the Concrete> Pictorial>Abstract approach. The students are provided with the necessary
learning experiences beginning with the concrete and pictorial stages, followed by the abstract stage to enable
them to learn mathematics meaningfully. This approach encourages active thinking process, communication
of mathematical ideas and problem solving. This helps develop the foundation students will need for more
advanced mathematics.
Each level has an
A & B of the
following:
Workbook
TM
Please note that we have chosen to use the US Edition of Singapore math, not the Standards Edition. We can Textbook
order workbooks for the Standards Edition but not the text or teacher’s manual.
Website: http://www.singaporemath.com/Primary_Mathematics_US_Ed_s/39.htm
Placement Test: http://www.singaporemath.com/Placement_Test_s/86.htm
Manipulatives
Saxon &
Singapore We have manipulative kits available for Saxon Math and Singapore Math for K-3.
(K-3)
Math U
We also have the manipulatives that are part of the Math U See program available to check out.
See
(All levels)
Manipulatives
vary for each
curriculum.
SCIENCE (limited quantities)
TITLE:
GRADE
LEVEL
Developing Critical Book 1
Thinking Through 1-3
Science
by The Critical Thinking Book 2
Company
4-8
COMMENTS:
AVAILABLE
Presents standards-based, hands-on, minds-on activities that help students learn basic physical science
principles and the scientific method of investigation. Each activity is a 10- to 30-minute guided experiment in
which students are prompted to verbalize their step-by-step observations, predictions, and conclusions.
Reproducible pictures or charts are included when needed, but the focus is inquiry-based, hands-on science.
Preparation time is short, and most materials can be found in the home. Step-by-step procedures, questions, TM
answer guidelines, and clear illustrations are provided. Practical applications at the end of each activity relate
science concepts to real-life experiences.
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/developing-critica-thinking-through-science.html
13
These are “singing science textbooks” with old-time songs people used to sing in their homes and around the
campfire, like "Oh Suzanna" and "Erie Canal." Each chapter begins with a song to help students memorize
scientific terms and concepts. The workbook exercises reinforce the lyrics and textual information. A fun
way to learn science! Each volume is a year’s worth of information.
Lyrical Life Science 4-10
by Lyrical Learning
Science Detective
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Spectrum Science
by Spectrum
Life Science Volume 1 General life science overview
Life Science Volume 2 Mammals, Ecology & Biomes
Life Science Volume 3 The Human Body
Earth Science Geology
Website: http://www.lyricallearning.com/
Uses topics and skills drawn from national science standards to prepare students for more advanced science
Beginning. courses. Students read lessons that include a variety of charts, tables, and graphs. After analyzing this
3-4
information they answer critical thinking questions to improve their understanding of the science concepts
and develop their reading comprehension, inferential and deductive thinking skills. Includes teacher and
Book A1 student introductions, a chart of topics and key ideas to help select activities, and detailed answers.
5-6
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/science-detective.html
Each workbook features easy-to-understand directions, full-color illustrations, photos, and lively passages.
It also offers grade-appropriate instruction and reinforcement in an effective sequence for learning science.
Also includes a complete answer key.
3-8
Workbook
TM
CD
Workbook
Workbook
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=spectrum+science+workbook
These colorful books respond to the growing emphasis on scientific exploration for young children. All the
activities are safe and easy to do, using ordinary household equipment.
Usborne Science
Activities
Volume 1 Water, Magnets, Lights & Mirrors
Volume 2 Air, Kitchen, and Plants
Volume 3 Batteries, Your Body, and Weather
1-4
by Usborne Publishing
What’s Science All
3-6
About
by Usborne Publishing
Book
Website Volume 1: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/026264/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
Or http://www.myubam.com/p/967/science-activities-v-1-cv
Website Volume 2: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/026265/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
Or http://www.myubam.com/p/656/science-activities-vol-2-cv
Website Volume 3: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/026266/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
Or http://www.myubam.com/p/704/science-activities-vol-3-cv
This is an accessible and informative guide to physics, chemistry and biology, how they work and how they
apply to everyday life. Covers all the key science topics including electricity, the periodic table and the
human body. Includes simple experiments and internet-links to recommended websites to find out more.
Illustrated with humorous drawings, cartoons and diagrams. This book contains the following Usborne titles:
Book
What's Biology All About?, What's Chemistry All About? and What's Physics All About?
Website:
http://www.usborne.com/catalogue/catalogue.aspx?cat=1&area=ILB&subcat=ILS&id=4255
14
HISTORY (limited quantities)
TITLE:
GRADE
LEVEL
A Child’s History of
4+
the World
by Calvert School
COMMENTS:
This well-loved Hillyer classic features stories of world history from prehistoric man through the 20th
century, inspiring an appreciation of how events relate to one another.
AVAILABLE
Book
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/010821/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
This book series is chronological and ends with the election of Barack Obama. These books are easy to read
and are an attempt to break the textbook mold. As one child reader wrote, the books seem like "an action
movie."
We check out Volumes 1-5 for one year and Volumes 6-10 for the following year.
A History of US
by Joy Hakim
6-10
Oxford University Press
Vol.1 First Americans, Vol. 2 Making Thirteen Colonies, Vol. 3 From Colonies to Country,
Vol. 4 New Nation, Vol. 5 Liberty for All?, Vol. 6 War, Terrible War, Vol. 7 Reconstruction and Reform,
Vol. 8 An Age of Extremes, Vol. 9 War, Peace & All That Jazz, Vol. 10 All the People and
Vol. 11 Sourcebook
Book
TM
Tests
Website: http://www.joyhakim.com/works.htm
Important note: This curriculum is covered in the RMCA Homeschool program in the 4th grade class. We
will loan this curriculum to you if you have an older student who has not been through the curriculum.
A Rendezvous with
4+
Colorado History
by Sterling Ties
Provides a general overview of Colorado's history at a fourth grade readability. Written by experienced
teachers with reading degrees, this narrative-style book grabs the interest of young children. Many color and
historical black and white pictures add to the appeal of this book. Includes hands-on activities.
Textbook
TM
Website: http://www.sterlingties.com/Colorado.htm
Core Knowledge
History
by Pearson Learning
Group
Used in our RMCA full
time school, not to be
confused with the
Common Core Standards
1-6
Edited by Core Knowledge founder E.D. Hirsch, Jr., it follows the Core Knowledge Sequence to teach key
history and geography topics, at each consecutive level. The books contain beautifully illustrated, highly
visual pages that engage and make information easier to understand and Teacher’s manual is easy to follow
and has activities, comprehension questions and tests.
Grades 1-2:
TM
Small Books
Grades 3-6:
Website:
TM
http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=core+knowledge+history+%26+geography+homescho Textbook
ol+bundle#/?_=1&filter.price.low=80&filter.price.high=100&page=1
15
Each of the pockets contains: a reproducible pocket label; a bookmark of short, fun facts about the subject; a
fact sheet of background information for teacher and students, arts and crafts projects and writing activities.
Evaluation forms are provided at the end of the book for teacher and student assessment purposes.
History Pockets
Hands-on
Supplemental
History Projects
1-3
4-6
by Evan Moor
Story of the World 1 – 8
by Peace Hill Press
Available: History Pockets American Civil War (4-6), History Pockets American Revolution (4-6), History
Pockets Ancient Civilization (1-3), History Pockets Ancient Egypt (4-6), History Pockets Ancient Rome (4-6) Workbook
(used in our 6th grade classes), History Pockets Colonial America (4-6), History Pockets Explorers of North
America (4-6), History Pockets Ancient Greece (4-6), History Pockets Life in Plymouth Colony (1-3),
History Pockets Moving West (4-6) and History Pockets Native Americans (1-3).
Website: http://www.evan-moor.com/c/63/history?specs=1405
This four-volume set covers the sweep of human history from ancient times until the present. Africa, China,
Europe, the Americas — find out what happened all around the world in long-ago times. Includes a teacher’s
manual with questions, hands-on projects, lists of additional resources and tests.
Activity/TM
Textbook
st th
st th
rd th
Volume 1 Ancient Times (1 -5 ) Volume 2 Middle Ages (1 -6 ) Volume 3 Early Modern Times (3 -8 )
rd
Tests (3rd-8th)
Volume 4 The Modern Age (3 -8th)
Website: http://peacehillpress.com/history-geography/
Begins with a briefly written lesson text followed by activity choices to reinforce the topic that work best for
your family. Also included are Project Pages providing directions, supplies needed, illustrations and printing
instructions. A Photo Gallery offers a visual aid of the final outcome of the projects. Beautifully detailed
Masters are provided for all printable projects.
Times Travelers
Series CDs History
3-8
Unit Studies
by Home School in the
Woods
Five "Project Days" are built into the schedule to help allow for extra time to complete outstanding projects.
Teacher Helps include tips for preparing and organizing, as well as a resource list of books, videos, audio
suggestions, and websites. A one-page Lesson Plan Schedule gives you a "guide-at-a-glance," allowing you to CD
see the whole schedule of upcoming topics and projects on one page.
Available: New World Explorers, Colonial Life, The American Revolution, The Early 19th Century, The
Civil War, The Industrial Revolution through the Great Depression, and World War II.
Website: http://www.homeschoolinthewoods.com/HTTA/TTS/
World History
Detective – Ancient
6-12
& Medieval
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Can be used as a stand-alone textbook, a resource of supplemental activities to enrich another textbook, or as
a review course for older students. Students begin by analyzing a lesson. Next, they apply critical thinking
skills to answer multiple choice and short essay questions. Finally, students support their answers by
identifying evidence learned from the lesson. Includes geographical maps, timelines, and concept maps, and
develops critical thinking skills in lessons that teach the roles that technology, power, institutions, ideas, and Workbook
trade played in shaping history. Includes teacher and student introductions, lists of historical topics, a lesson
on identifying evidence, answers, and grade level standards.
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/world-history-detective.html
16
GEOGRAPHY
TITLE:
GRADE
LEVEL
AVAILABLE
COMMENTS:
Explore neighborhoods, communities, the United States, the world, and more with this engaging program that
serves as a stand-alone curriculum or as a supplement to your existing lessons.
Maps, Charts &
Graphs
by Pearson Learning
Group
7-8
Book G (The World)
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/008894/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
Workbook
Book H (U.S. Past and Present)
Website: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/008895/be41b43e9a7f3307dd5544f0
These workbooks contain 48 pages of geography activities that help students to master critical map-reading
skills from finding their way around town to identifying countries around the world. They contain colorful,
up-to-date maps, including a wide variety of physical and political maps. They also have map analysis and
critical thinking questions that require students to draw conclusions from each map.
Map Skills for
Today
by Weekly Reader
1-6
Grade 1 (Finding Your Way), Grade 2 (Take a Trip With Us), Grade 3 (Maps Across America),
Grade 4 (Traveling Near and Far), Grade 5 (The Americas in Focus) and Grade 6 (All Around the World)
Workbook
Website: http://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/products/map-skills-for-today-
workbooks?keyword=map%20skills%20for%20today&matchtype=e&psch=CM/ps/20120625/Googl
e/txtl/ClassMagsPPC_Google//map%20skills%20for%20today/Skills_Books_Titles/e&promo_code
=3381
CRITICAL THINKING
TITLE:
Balance Benders
by The Critical Thinking
Company
GRADE
LEVEL
Beg. 2-6
Students develop deductive thinking and pre-algebra skills . Students must analyze each balance to identify
Lev. 1 4-12 the clues, and then synthesize the information to solve the puzzle.
Lev. 2 6-12
Lev. 3 8-12 Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/balance-benders.html
Lev. 1 2-5
Balance Math and
More
Lev. 2 4-12
by The Critical Thinking
Company
COMMENTS:
These activities sharpen students’ critical thinking and computational skills, and develop algebraic reasoning.
Each book is made up of three different types of puzzles:
Balance Math: Students examine the balances to deduce the missing value.
Inside-Out Math: Students need to reverse their thinking, using the inverse relationships between addition and
subtraction and multiplication and division to solve the puzzle.
Tic Tac Math: Students figure out the correct order to complete all rows, columns, and diagonals.
AVAILABLE
Workbook
Workbook
Level 1 focuses on addition and subtraction of whole numbers.
Lev. 3 6-12 Level 2 focuses on multiplication and division of whole numbers, but has a few problems involving fractions.
Level 3 involves addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication as well as fractions and decimals.
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/balance-math-and-more.html
17
Balance Math
Teaches Algebra
by The Critical Thinking
Company
4-12
Introduces algebra through balanced scales in a natural and exciting way to conceptually master fundamental
algebraic ideas. The book’s visually simple approach engages students intuitively in step-by-step thinking.
The puzzle-like problems ensure students are cognitively involved while they hone their techniques of
simplifying, substituting, and writing proofs to solve simultaneous equations. Teaching suggestions and
solutions are included. These problems involve critical thinking and computation.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/balance-math-and-more.html
Can You Find
Me?
K
by The Critical Thinking
Company
1st
A1 3-5
Creative Thinking
Puzzlers
B1 6-8
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Dr. DooRiddles
by The Critical Thinking
Company
C1 9-12
A1 K-2
A2 K-2
A3 2-3
B1 4-7
B2 4-7
Inference Jones
Beg. 3-4
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Lev. 1 5-6
Beg. K-1
Develops skills in reading readiness, science, math, and social studies using five basic thinking skills:
identifying similarities and differences, forming/following sequences and patterns, classifying objects and
groups, identifying/interpreting analogies and logic. Each colorful riddle requires identification of two or
more clues to deduce the answer. Activities may be enhanced by teaching additional information about the
animals, objects, shapes, letters, and numbers used in the riddles.
Workbook
Automatically given to kindergartners and first graders in our program
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/can-you-find-me.html
Helps students become fluent, flexible problem solvers who can generate different solutions and different
ways to find solutions. Students start with given criteria, determine possible solutions, evaluate them, and then
eliminate possibilities before determining a final solution. Includes seven engaging verbal and visual skills
Workbook
categories. Easy-to-follow directions and answers are included.
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/dr-funsters-series.html
Develops students’ fluency and understanding of word meanings and associations as it improves their
spelling, vocabulary, reading, and problem-solving skills. Students carefully read through clues in each
riddle, analyzing connections within and between clues to figure out what is being described. Solving the
riddles requires students to evaluate homonyms, synonyms, homophones, prefixes, roots, and suffixes in order Workbook
to deduce and spell whole and partial word answers.
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/dr-dooriddles-and-spelling-dooriddles.html
Each book provides activities that improve critical reading and higher-order thinking by developing the
student’s ability to draw inferences from written text. Research shows inferential reasoning is a prerequisite
component to higher level reading comprehension.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/inference-jones.html
Math Analogies
Bk. 1 2-3
by The Critical Thinking
Company
Bk. 2 4-5
Problem solving is an essential part of mathematical development. Analogies teach students to break problems
down into their component parts, making it easier to recognize familiar formats that enable students to
produce solutions. These books ask students to draw and verbalize their answers. The drawings develop fine
motor skills and the verbalization develops communication skills. Designed around the grade-appropriate
Workbook
standards identified by the National Council of Teaching Mathematics.
Bk. 3 6-7
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/math-analogies.html
18
Uses topics and skills drawn from national math standards to prepare your students for advanced math courses
and assessments that measure reasoning, reading comprehension, and writing in math.
Beg. 3-4
Math Detective
by The Critical Thinking
Company
A1 5-6
B1 7-8
Students read a short story that includes a chart, table, or graph, analyze and synthesize the information and
answer critical thinking questions to improve their understanding of the math concept and develop their
critical thinking (comprehension) skills. Students must support their answers. Includes general and student
introductions, a lesson that explains the concept of evidence, a chart of topics and key ideas to help select
activities, and detailed answers.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/math-detective.html
Smarty Pants
Puzzles
by The Critical Thinking
Company
3-12+
Develops a host of critical thinking skills. Students must read the puzzle and analyze the pictures looking for
evidence needed to answer the questions. This depth of analysis produces reading comprehension skills and
teaches students how to find and evaluate evidence. Skills developed include: inference, deduction, drawing
conclusions, identification and analysis of evidence and comprehension.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/smarty-pants-puzzles-level-1.html
Think A Minutes
by The Critical Thinking
Company
A1 2-3
A2 2-3
B1 4-5
B2 4-5
C1 6-8
C2 6-8
Think Analogies
A1 3-5
by The Critical Thinking
Company
B1 6-12
The collection develops a variety of critical and creative thinking skills for top academic performance in all
subjects. The books include language development, math, writing, visual, spatial, and perceptual skills
activities that build deductive, inductive, and logical reasoning. Directions and answers are included.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/dr-funsters-series.html
Teaches your students how to analyze and classify analogies by relationship, category, and structure. Both
books begin with an exploration of word relationships. Students classify word groups, form pairs of related
items, then identify types of analogous relationships and classify them. Finally, they select and supply words
and word pairs to complete analogies. Book B1 also teaches how to read and understand analogy structures,
describe analogous relationships, and make analogies from word lists.
Workbook
Website: http://www.criticalthinking.com/think-analogies-and-thinkanalogy-puzzles.html
CORE KNOWLEDGE
TITLE:
GRADE
LEVEL
Core Knowledge
Series - What your
K-6th Grader Needs K-6
to Know
By Delta Education
COMMENTS:
AVAILABLE
Follows the Core Knowledge Sequence for each consecutive level. Each book provides information and
activities on stories and poems, common sayings, history and geography, math, science, visual arts, and music,
as well as suggestions for related readings and resources. The kindergarten and first grade books also include
Book
sections on how children learn to read. Used as the foundation curriculum by many homeschoolers and in
RMCA’s full time school.
Website: http://books.coreknowledge.org/home.php?cat=298
19