Synopsis
This series covers the range of math concepts and skills that students are expected to master during second grade. The series moves sequentially through the math curriculum, using practical examples to show how people use math every day in the real world. Each book is leveled to match students' reading skills as they progress through second grade.
Children's Literature
The purpose of the Weekly Reader Leveled Readers "Math in Our World" series is to introduce the young reader to math concepts in real life situations. This book is coded as a Level 2, GR: K so as to be integrated precisely into an elementary curriculum. The book is intended for kindergarten students with emerging academic skills, and the book seems appropriate for an early elementary level. It blends the facts of using money with the fictional tale of children going shopping. Inspired by a school visit from an author, three children, Von, Sara, and Jane, decide to write and illustrate books together. They agree upon the supplies needed (pencils, a notebook, and an eraser) and, with the list and Jane's mom, set off to shop. By pooling their money, the children succeed in buying the three items, plus crayons. Once back home, they start writing down ideas. At every step of the shopping spree, photos of the items bought (or rejected) have corresponding price tags, and the exact change needed is photographed as well. The children must pass up colored pencils and markers in the search for drawing implements. A short glossary is included. The story can be a supplement to a school curriculum that teaches how to count money and change. It can also be the basis of a project, in which children would learn about budgets, sharing finances, and team work. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins, Ph.D.