Elementary Math Textbooks: How to Choose

How to Select a Math Textbook

It is important to understand that the school system your child attends will ultimately make the decision as to whether or not a math textbook is used within the elementary math curriculum. In addition, if the school system decides to use a textbook approach, then the school system will also decide which math textbook the teachers will use in their classrooms. It is common for some schools to only use math textbooks for their older students, since they are better able to read and understand the math content. Furthermore, many schools elect to use worksheets and hands-on resources to teach math concepts to their lower elementary students.

If, however, you are homeschooling your child or you want to provide him or her with extra resources and practice at home, then you might want to invest in a textbook for at-home use. Before selecting a textbook, keep in mind what you want your child to get out of it. For instance, if he or she is especially struggling with long division, pick a book that focuses directly on long division. Similarly, if your child needs additional practice at home, look for a book that contains multiple sample problems and answers.

Benefits of a Textbook

If your elementary student is learning math through a textbook approach, there are many advantages that will likely be working in his or her favor. For instance, textbooks are generally designed to address the benchmarks for each specific grade level. The use of textbooks will help to ensure that your child is learning the appropriate material for his or her grade level. A good math textbook will be designed to help your child fully understand a specific concept before additional skills are introduced. Your child should also have the opportunity to periodically review skills that he or she has mastered.

Often, textbooks have great ideas that can help teachers introduce a difficult concept in a more effective manner. If your child struggles or needs extra help with math, then a textbook approach will definitely benefit him or her. For example, if your child has a textbook to bring home you will be able to review math concepts. Also, if you need to refresh your memory about a particular math concept, your child's textbook will be a great resource for that.

Ideally, your child's math teacher should not solely use the math textbook as a means of instruction. For textbooks to be as beneficial as possible, supplemental materials should be incorporated into your student's learning process.