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Mathematics

Sir Cumference Math Adventure Series
Math Texts by Harold Jacobs
Economics
Key to...series
Other Helpful Math Manipulatives
Miquon Math Materials
Cuisenaire Rods
Murderous Maths
Statistics
Uncle Eric Books

Math & Music
 

Math & Music by Wildridge Education

Math & Music is an interdisciplinary program emphasizing the practical value of fundamental math skills by relating these skills to the basic elements of music. The program wll help students build the mathematical foundation necessary to understand algebra and appreciate diverse musical forms.

The program combines mathematics, music, physics, and history. Click here for more information and ordering.
 

50 Mathematical Puzzles and Problems

Gilles Cohen (Editor)
Grade 6–College

More than a decade's worth of puzzles and problems from the International Championship of Mathematics are found in this three-volume set. The problems are organized by mathematical themes—geometry and symmetry, arithmetic and number theory, logic and algorithmic process.

Created for all puzzle and game lovers and learners, this engaging series of problems relies more on reasoning than knowledge. It provides hours of investigative problem solving and will reinforce and integrate the fundamental themes of traditional mathematics with discrete mathematics.

Each book of 50 problems is laid out with one problem per page. Full solutions are provided.

The Green Collection (Grades 6–12) is accessible to many middle school students while still challenging enough for high school students. It introduces classic problems like the four-color map, the division of irregular areas into equal parts, and magic squares and number mazes

Paper, 86 pages. 8.8"x6.8"x.3"

#4987XX $13.95 $12.99
The Orange Collection (Grades 9–12) is the intermediate set and will challenge most high-school-age learners. Students divide polygons into tilings of congruent shapes; they encounter knots, chains, and networks; they decipher messages and break codes. A few solutions are facilitated with algebra and trigonometry.

Paper, 86 pages. 8.8"x6.8"x.3"

#4994X $13.95 $12.99
The Red Collection (Grade 9–College) is the most challenging set, involving distance, vectors, transformations, systems of equations, series, powers, and number theory. Problems are solved with compass and straightedge constructions, trigonometry, the Pythagorean theorem, synthetic division, and a great deal of ingenuity.

Paper, 86 pages. 8.8"x6.8"x.3"

#5007 $13.95 $12.99 

Buy all three together (Green, Orange and Red) and save over 30%!: #FUN92 $41.85 $28.99


Africa Counts: Number and Pattern in African Cultures, 3rd edition - by Claudia Zaslavsky. This fascinating study of mathematical thinking among sub-Saharan African peoples covers counting in words and in gestures; measuring time, distance, weight, and other quantities; manipulating money and keeping accounts; number systems; patterns in music, poetry, art, and architecture; and number magic and taboos. African games such as mankala and elaborate versions of tic-tac-toe show how complex this thinking can be. This third edition is updated with an introduction covering two decades of new research in the ethnomathematics of Africa.

Claudia Zaslavsky was a mathematics teacher and the author of Math Games and Activities from Around the World, More Math Games and Activities from Around the World and other books.

#3505 $16.95
 

Agnesi to Zeno: Over 100 Vignettes from the History of Math by Sanderson M. Smith - The activities in this book highlight important achievements in the history of mathematics, from our earliest counting systems to modern developments in chaos theory. The book is illustrated with historical art, and its engaging vignettes introduce concepts, events, and influential mathematicians and show the contributions of the world's many cultures to the development of mathematics.

Activities encourage writing, in-depth research, and discussion. Many foster the understanding that mathematics doesn't stand alone but influences and is influenced by other disciplines.

In exercises from almost every branch of mathematics, students apply the concepts developed by Euclid, Maria Agnesi, Benjamin Banneker, and many others. References to source material assist students in their research and encourage them to further explore the topics introduced in the vignettes.

An annotated table of contents makes it easy for you to select and present class vignettes that feature algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, calculus, applied math, and more!

Paper, 266 pages. The left edge of the book is 3-hole-punched so you have the option of keeping it in a binder. 8.5"x11" Ages 14+,

#1078 $28.95 $22.99


Algebra Survival Guide A self-teaching guide that is packaged in a question-and-answer format, this book will help illuminate algebraic concepts in a clear, non-threatening way. It can be used to supplement an existing Algebra 1 text, as a review book (such as studying for the SAT) or all by itself.

I've heard positive comments from math-phobic teens who finally "get" algebra after using this book.

#1381 $19.95 $17.99




Algebra Survival Guide Workbook The workbook provides 58 reproducible pages of practice problems with all the answers included. It can be used with any algebra textbook to practice specific concepts, but it works best when used in conjunction with the Algebra Survival Guide. When used together, the workbook and text can be used as a complete Algebra I curriculum (especially for learners who don't like traditional textbooks).

#1373 $9.95





Algebra Unplugged by Kenn Amdahl & Jim Loats. One of our customers special ordered this book for her teenager and reported back to us that it really helped her daughter begin to understand algebra. Written with the idea that many people who learn best by reading and understanding concepts are often confused by traditional "exercise-intensive books," this book focuses attention on the concepts.

This is an excellent book for anyone intimidated by algebraic formulas but who likes to read. Plain talk and realistic examples help the concepts make sense. After reading this book, when you go on to practice algebra by doing exercises (found perhaps in the Jacobs Algebra book), you'll find those exercises will now make more sense.

Paper, 258 pages.


#1575 $14.95


Alice in Pastaland: A Math Adventure by Alexandra Wright, illustrated by Reagan Word - Suppose that Alice had fallen into a wonderland where pasta was the only common denominator. In this clever parody of Lewis Carroll's classic tale, Alexandra Wright presents a mathematically aware Alice whose adventures are an appetizing combination of numbers, humor, and fun. With the Math Hatter dishing it up, the Adder using his noodle, and the Quantum Cat adding spice, arithmetic is full of pastabilities.

Ages 6-9.

Paper, 32 pages. 9.5"x8.5"x.1".

#1514 $7.95


Arithmetic Made Simple by Sperling & Levison. Covers the material usually used in grades 1-8 in schools, all in a single book, with plenty of exercises and answers. Explains addition, subtraction, multiplication, long division; fractions, decimals, percentage and interest; measurement of lines, angles and perimeters; proportions; graphs; signed numbers. Simple, straightforward text.

This is a useful book for people who want reassurance that they are covering basic arithmetic or want to check an explanation if they need to. This is really for adults who are not sure about themselves in the math, unless your kids like math workbooks (my two youngest seek out math workbooks at times!) I recommend using it in conjunction with other books (such as those listed here) that emphasize mathematical thinking and mathematical activities.

Paper, 173 pages. JHB.

#9386 $12.95


The Big Buck Adventure by Shelly Gill & Deborah Tobola, illustrated by Grace Lin - A young girl learns the value of the dollar after her parents give her a raise in her allowance. She sets out on a great adventure at the store with her money. As she makes her way through her favorite store, she's tempted by salespeople with their "great deals."

However, what seems like a pleasant afternoon of shopping soon turns perplexing as the challenge of her buying options become overwhelming. She doesn't know what to do. There are so many choices, but she only has one buck. She realizes that saving her money might be much better in the long run than spending it all on a shopping spree.

Color illustrations throughout.

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 6-9.

#2953 $6.95


Calculus for Cats by Kenn Amdahl & Jim Loats. We were at a homeschooling conference when one of our customers (who also just happens to be a math consultant!) came up to us with a copy of this book in her hands and told us we just had to add it to our catalog. She knew that we liked Algebra Unplugged by this same duo and thought we would like this title as well. She was right!

After reading this book, I have to say they've done it again. Combine a guy who loves words (but distrusts math) and a guy who loves math (but distrusts words), and the unlikely collaboration produces a perfect book for the beginner or the hopelessly lost. Without doing a single problem, you will get the basic concepts and vocabulary of Calculus and may find that the subject is no longer as mysterious or terrifying as it once was. The use of humor, analogy, and concrete examples makes this a much easier read than the typical exercise-intensive textbook. You may find yourself needing to re-read some sections to fully grasp the concepts (it is still calculus after all!), but if you are not mathematically inclined, this may be your best bet for ever understanding calculus.

Paper, 179 pages

#155X $14.95


Card Game Roundup: Play Your Way to Math Success (Grades 3-5) by Josh Rappaport - Enhance math learning with fun games that teach math skills and concepts. With Wild West themes, these games capture children's imaginations, then take them for an exciting ride along the "concept range."

In "Annie Oakley," children learn about measurement and data analysis. In "Mysterious Bandits," children solve for variables in addition and subtraction problems. And in "Land Grab," they learn how to sort objects into the sections of a Venn Diagram. There are 17 games in all.

Paper, 96 pages.

#1306X $12.95


Cut Down to Size at High Noon: A Math Adventure by Scott Sundby, illustrated by Wayne Geehan - When badguy Buzzsaw Bart shows up with a challenge in the town of Cowlick, everyone discovers that scale drawing can be the secret of success. Who will walk away the winner fro the showdown at high noon and who will be cut down to size.

Ages 6-9.

Paper, 32 pages. 8.5"x9.5"x.1"

#1682 $7.95


Equal Shmequal: A Math Adventure by Virginia Kroll, illustrated by Philomena O'Neill - What does it mean to be equal? Mouse and her friends want to play tug-of-war but they can't figure out how to make teams that are equal. Nothing works until Mouse starts thinking mathematically. Wonderful illustrations capture Mouse and her animal friends from whiskers to tails.

Ages 5-8.

Paper, 32 pages. 9.5"x8.5"x.1".

#8926 $7.95


Family Math Popular among homeschoolers, Family Math activities, games and projects use simple everyday objects such as beans, blocks, and pennies. Designed for adults and kids to do together, each math activity is coded for level of difficulty and lists what skill is being covered (logical reasoning, measurement, probability, estimation, statistics, and more). Reproducible sheets for various math activities are included: graph paper (can be used with Cuisenaire Rods), blank calendars, tangram patterns, and hundred charts are a few. Homeschoolers also find handy the lists of skills generally covered at each grade level. Stresses hands-on learning and using math skills in everyday life.

Ages 5-12. Paper, 319 pages.

#1060 $19.95 $18.99


Family Math II: Achieving Success in Mathematics presents exciting new mathematics materials to help families learn and enjoy mathematics together. It provides young people an interactive approach to understanding algebra, geometry, number sense, estimation, logical thinking, probability, statistics, and much more. Important math content is presented in easy-to-follow activities, games, and investigations. Families will find the activities in this book challenging and engaging.

Organized by math topics and grade levels, Family Math II fosters a deeper understanding of mathematics. Parents will discover many practical ways to help their children learn math. Complete plans on how to set up a Family Math class series are included.

Paper, 192 pages. For parents and teachers of children from five to twelve years old.

#1303 $22.95 $21.99


Fractals, Googols, and Other Mathematical Tales by Theoni Pappas When I returned from the post office, the first thing I did was hand this book to my eldest son, Alex (11 yo), and tell him that I wanted his opinion of it. I spoke to him 10 minutes later and received no reply. He was totally engrossed. (As a little background, Alex left school 3 months into first grade. Those three months turned him from a math lover into a math hater. It took a long 3 years of not forcing math on him to start to reverse this process. This makes his reaction to this book the more notable.)

It was a day and a half before I got my hands on it again. True, it was only to have my other son, Nicky (7 1/2), insist that I read it to him. We soon happily "wasted" yet more time constructing mobius strips, cutting them apart, and trying to tape two together to make a klein bottle (unsuccessfully, I might add). My husband then took over when the book discussed "pi," and he and Nicky measured circular objects, both the circumference and the diameter, and calculated the ratio. Nicky was quite impressed that it came out the same.

From the mobius strips to the Golden Rectangle, Fibonacci sequences to fractals, this book is a pleasant presentation of math subjects not generally made accessible to young children, as well as containing more conventional topics such as tangrams, the abacus, mazes, magic squares, and logic problems. The topics were greatly enhanced, in Alex's opinion, by being couched in stories about Penrose the Cat, Leonard the Turtle, and Dr. Spacemath. This book would be greatly improved by references at the end of each topic indicating where the avid can pursue the subject.  P.W.

Paper, 64 pages.

#4896 $10.95

Also available:

Since he was a kitten, the author's cat, Penrose, has gotten into her papers, puzzles and sometimes even appeared to be turning pages in her various math books! He is the inspiration for the following books.

Penrose, no ordinary cat, takes kids on adventurous tours of mathematical concepts and characters with his books. The stories help make abstract concepts more understandable and fun to learn. The activities are enjoyable and relatively simple to do (solutions are in the back of the book). Each chapter is self-contained so that you can randomly pick any math game, idea,
or puzzle and learn about it without having to read the preceding chapters first. Ages 9-12.
 

The Adventures of Penrose the Mathematical Cat by Theoni Pappas.

Penrose discovers pancake world
Penrose meets the fractal dragon
Penrose meets the Fibonacci rabbit
Penrose watches a tangram egg hatch
The polyhedra connect with Penrose
and MANY more fun and informative tales

Paper, 114 pages

#0142 $10.95

The Further Adventures of Penrose the Mathematical Cat by Theoni Pappas. 

Penrose gets the prime numbers
Penrose tells a snail about spirals
He shares his solitaire game puzzles
Penrose shares his favorite math magic tricks

and MANY more fun and informative tales

Paper, 117 pages.

#0320 $10.95

Penrose Presents My Best Math Puzzles: 104 Math Puzzle Playing Cards - This box contains some of the puzzles that make Penrose purr. The solutions booklet is missing. Out of print, one copy available.
 #8120 $19.99



How to Think About Statistics, 6th edition by John L. Phillips - In this title, the author explains the underlying logic of statistical analysis and problem solving, building one concept upon another to provide a solid framework for understanding of how statistics are used, reported, and manipulated.

This introduction to statistics focuses on concepts.

Paper, 214 pages. 9"x6"x0.6".

 #6547X $16.95 $14.99 Out of print - one copy available.

Mandelbrot's World of Fractals DVD - Professor Benoit Mandelbrot, the innovator of fractal mathematics, brings us a novel look at fractals in Mandelbrot's World of Fractals. This DVD makes basic concepts of fractals accessible to learners and shows creative examples of fractals in the real world - not only in ferns and coastlines, but also in your kitchen!

This DVD is divided into ten independent modules and will enliven math learning.

The total running time is 62 minutes. The part intended for students is 52 minutes. Ages 14+.

#7933 $26.95 $19.99


Number Jugglers: Math Game Book by Ruth Bell Alexander (comes with 86 cards). Learn fundamental math concepts through 20 different open-ended math games.

Adaptable for children learning to count to those on the verge of algebra. 80 pages.


#8823 $12.95


Games for Math: Playful Ways to Help Your Child Learn Math - from Kindergarten to Third Grade by Peggy Kaye. Children learn math through playing over 60 fun and inexpensive games using everyday material found in the home.

Paper, 236 pages.

See also Kaye's other books, Games for Reading and Games for Writing.

#5103 $15.95 $12.75


The Geometer's Sketchpad: Dynamic Geometry Software for Exploring Mathematics, Version 4 (Student Edition) - The Geometer's Sketchpad is a dynamic construction, demonstration, and exploration tool that adds a powerful dimension to the study of mathematics. You and your students can use this software program to build and investigate mathematical models, objects, figures, diagrams, and graphs.

* With Sketchpad, the learner has a tangible, visual way to explore and understand abstract concepts in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, and calculus. Concepts that may be initially difficult to understand become very clear when viewing visual representations on the screen and interacting with them using Sketchpad.

* Sketchpad can help the learner quickly explore variables, relationships, and the mathematics of change. When you construct objects in Sketchpad, one can drag points and lines with the mouse. As shapes and positions change, all mathematical relationships are preserved, allowing one to examine an entire set of similar cases in a matter of seconds.

* You can quickly and easily generate teaching aids such as worksheets, tests, reports, and presentations with accurately measured figures by exporting Sketchpad files to word-processing programs and spreadsheets, other drawing programs, and the Internet.

* You can use Sketchpad across the mathematics curriculum, so you don’t need different software for each concept, or age level.

Includes: CD-ROM for Windows/Macintosh, learning guide. quick reference guide, 101 project ideas. Ages 8-college.

#5281 $39.95 $37.99


Exploring Algebra 1 with The Geometer's Sketchpad, Version 4 (CD-ROM and Book) (Key Curriculum) by Chanan, Bergofsky, and Bennett -  The activities in this collection bridge the concrete world of arithmetic to the abstract world of algebra. Concepts come alive as learners manipulate pre-made sketches and construct their own models of algebraic situations.

Exploring Algebra includes 47 blackline activity masters, extensive notes on using the activities most effectively, activity prerequisites, estimated time requirements, and detailed answers. Extensions to the main activities encourage further exploration.

The accompanying CD for Windows and Macintosh contains all the pre-made sketches, the demonstration sketches, and additional resources. This subject-specific activity book requires The Geometry Sketchpad.

Paper, 216 pages. Ages 13+.

#5342 $42.95 $39.99


Exploring Geometry with The Geometer's Sketchpad ®, Version 4 edition (CD-Rom and Book) (Key Curriculum) by Dan Bennett - This popular curriculum module for The Geometer's Sketchpad® guides students as they construct and manipulate geometric figures and discover relationships and theorems on their own.

Exploring Geometry features more than 100 activities covering virtually every concept studied in high school geometry and has ideas for projects, open-ended problems, and long-term assignments.

Exploring Geometry includes: Extensions to the main activities, reproducible blackline masters, CD in Windows® and Macintosh® formats containing all the pre-made sketches required in the activities, the demonstration sketches, and additional resources

Paper, 303 pages. Book and CD-Rom.

This subject-specific activity book requires The Geometry Sketchpad software.

#5814 $49.95 $39.99 One copy available.

Rethinking Proof with The Geometer's Sketchpad®, Version 4 edition, (CD-ROM and book) by Michael D. DeVilliers - Rethinking Proof harnesses the power of Dynamic Geometry® to engage students in proving conjectures and thinking about proof in different ways. Rethinking Proof offers other motivations for proof besides verification, including explanation, discovery, challenge, and systemization.

In the activities, students work with SketchpadTM sketches to make conjectures. Carefully constructed questions guide students to develop explanations of why their conjectures are true. Comes with extensive teacher's notes, and includes a CD-ROM (Windows and MacIntosh) containing pre-made sketches required in the activities, the demonstration sketches, and additional resources.

Paper, 222 pages. Book and CD-Rom

This subject-specific activity book requires The Geometer's Sketchpad software.

#6462 $49.95 $39.99 One copy available.

Grandfather Tang's Story by Ann Tompert. Grandfather Tang tells Little Soo a story about two fox fairies, Chou and Wu Ling, who can change their shapes. They try to outdo each other by changing into various animals. For instance, when Wu Ling changes himself into a rabbit, Chou changes into a dog and chases him. Every time Wu Ling changes into a different animal, Chou changes into one that can chase him. Their game goes further than they imagine and they come close to losing their friendship.

Besides showing the value of friendships, diagrams throughout the book encourage readers to create their own tangram shapes. Illustrated with lovely watercolor paintings. Readers can make their own tangrams to accompany the book or you can purchase a set of our tangrams.

Paper, 34 pages.

#5581 $6.99


Graphing Mat - Turn graphing into a fun activity with everyday objects and this double-sided floor mat. It is made out of durable vinyl mats and is great for graphing, classifications, and comparisons. It has a 3 x 10 grid on one side and a 4 x 12 grid on the reverse. 24" x 72". (Ignore the circles in the photo to the left. This mat has grids on both sides).

#0557 $14.50



Grocery Cart Math by Jaye Hansen - Make grocery store trips a part of your learning day, with Grocery Cart Math. Learn basic math skills through regular trips to the grocery store. Each section contains specific activities to do at the store, at home, and questions to discuss.

Paper, 46 pages. Ages 8-10. Large print.

#2677 $10.00



Head Full of Numbers Game - Kids will have math on their minds with this game for any number of players! From one child to the whole family, everyone will love the fast-paced fun.

Place the three standard dice and three custom dice (with numbers 0, 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9) into the fun dice shaker then roll them out and place them into the dice tray. Set the sand timer and have the score pad ready to record the number of unique, correct equations each player makes using the numbers rolled. Equations can use simple addition or subtraction or include multiplication and division for a more challenging game.

Includes: Dice cup; 3 number dice 1-6; 3 custom dice 0, 1, 2, 7, 8, 9; dice tray; timer; scorepad; guide.

Ages 7+. For any number of players.

#8898 $17.99 $13.99 Sale! While supplies last.


The I Hate Mathematics! Book by Marilyn Burns introduces readers to real mathematics through hands-on activities. It conveys that math is fun through amusing text and drawings. Reading level for ages 9+. I found it useful for dispelling some of my math "phobia" and shared many of the activities with my 7 year old.

Paper, 127 pages.

#7412 $14.99



The Man Who Counted: A Collection of Mathematical Adventures by Malba Tahan is a book highly recommended by a customer. We got our own copy, and dad Bill read this collection of stories (each built around a mathematical puzzle) to our children each night at bedtime for several weeks. Every morning, I was regaled with stories of how the fictional Beremiz Samir, a Persian mathematician, used his amazing math abilities to settle disputes and give sage advice. Along the way they also learned about other famous mathematicians.

This is great storytelling! Even those who don't like math, will like this book.

Paper, 244 pages.

#9347 $15.95 $14.35


Math Detective™ A1 Software (Critical Thinking Company) uses topics and skills drawn from national math standards to prepare learners for advanced math courses and assessments that measure reasoning, reading comprehension, and writing in math.

Students read a short story that includes a chart, table, or graph. Next, they answer critical thinking questions to improve their understanding of the math concept and develop their critical thinking (comprehension) skills. Students can’t just scan the story for answers - they must carefully analyze and synthesize the information from the text and the chart, table, or graph to explain and support their answers.

Stories are high-interest and show learners that math is integral to everyday activities.

Teaching Support:
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.

Features:
40 activities
Self-tutoring: quick or detailed instructions, hints, and explanations for correct and incorrect answers
Self-grading
Printable award certificates and fun reward games
Saves unfinished games
On-screen teaching guide and answer keys
Password protection

Single License includes:  One CD-Rom with a right to install on 1 computer.

System Requirements
Platform: Windows® XP/2000/Me/NT/98/95
Media: CD-ROM
CPU: 200 MHz or faster
RAM: 64MB

Platform: Macintosh®
OS X
Media: CD-ROM
CPU: 200 MHz or faster
RAM: 132MB

Grades 5-6.

#8412 $29.99 $17.99 One copy available.

Math for Girls & Other Problem Solvers by Diane Downie, Twila Slesnick, Jean Kerr Stenmark - This book's goal is to change the attitude that math is scary, mystifying or boring. Hands-on activities like mystery stories, origami, hot air balloon rides, geoblocks, career skits, horseshoe games, and spatial creatures challenge learners and engage their curiosity and creative thinking about math.

Designed as an eight-day course, the activities are organized around five problem-solving strands: logic strategies, breaking set, creative thinking and observation, spatial visualization, and careers. It is intended to interest both boys and girls at the elementary and secondary levels in mathematics and math-related careers. These activities are designed for group learning (most for groups of 2-3 learners, though there are some activities for an individual and also larger groups).

Paper, 108 pages. 10.75"x8.25"x.25. Cover has some edgewear. Out of print, one copy available.

#101X $11.95


Math for Humans: Teaching Math Through 7 Intelligences by Mark Wahl - Tapping a different intelligence can change the math channel from black and white to color. Join Mark Wahl in the realm of the Multiple Intelligences and you'll soon be crafting intelligent mathematics lessons that are more engaging, more colorful, and more related to life.

Lessons are targeted towards ages 8-12+.

Paper, 256 pages. 8.25"x10.5"x.5". Cover is scuffed and has some edgewear.

#1473 $29.95 One copy available. Out of print.

Math Games & Activities from Around the World by Claudia Zaslavsky - Math, history, geography, art, and world cultures come together in this delightful book for kids who think math is boring. More than 70 math games, puzzles, and projects from all over of the world are included.

Learners will hone their math skills as they use geometry to design game boards and logical thinking to work out strategies or analyze the outcomes of games of chance. Activities include building a model pyramid, testing the golden ratio of the Parthenon, and working maze-like African network puzzles.

Paper, 147 pages. 11"x8 1/2"

#2871 $14.95


More Math Games & Activities from Around the World by Claudia Zaslavsky - Math, history, art, and world cultures come together in this delightful book for kids, even for those who find traditional math lessons boring. More than 70 games, puzzles, and projects encourage kids to hone their math skills as they calculate, measure, and solve problems.

The games span the globe, and many have been played for thousands of years, such as three-in-a-row games like Achi from Ghana or the forbidden game of Jirig from Mongolia. Also included are imaginative board games like Lambs and Tigers from India and the Little Goat Game from Sudan, or bead and string puzzles from China, and M+bius strip puzzles from Germany.

Through compelling math play, children will gain confidence and have fun as they learn about the different ways people around the world measure, count, and use patterns and symmetry in their everyday lives.

Paper, 161 pages. Ages 9+.

#5018 $14.95


Math Talk  by Theoni Pappas. Our family fell in love with reading poems together when my husband and I read Joyful Noise together to our children. Our son was especially captivated and asks to read poems together every so often.

Like Joyful Noise, Pappas' book is written to be read by two people - sometimes alternating, sometimes simultaneous. It's a great deal of fun to read the poems with someone else and a neat way to celebrate and learn about math!

Paper, 71 pages.


#4748 $8.95


The Mathematical Tourist: New, Updated Snapshots of Modern Mathematics (revised edition/1998) by Ivars Peterson - Journey with the author on a tour through the sometimes bizarre, but always fascinating, landscape of modern mathematics. Blazing a trail through rows of austere symbols and dense lines of formulae, Peterson explores the central ideas behind the work of professional mathematicians - how and where their pieces of the mathematical puzzle fit iN, the sources of their ideas, their fountains of inspiration, and the images that carry them from one discovery to another.

Paper, 284 pages. 9.5"x6.2"x1". Includes photos and illustrations.

#2501 $14.95 Out of print, one copy available.

Multiplying Menace: The Revenge of Rumpelstiltskin by Pam Calvert, illustrated by Wayne Geehan - Rumpelstiltskin is back! This time he's making mischief with his multiplying stick. Can Peter unlock the secret of the stick in time to save the kingdom? Whimsical illustrations bring fun to multiplying whole numbers and fractions.

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 7-10.

#8902 $7.95


The Music of Reason: Experience the Beauty of Mathematics Through Quotations compilation and commentary by Theoni Pappas - A collection of profound and profane thoughts on mathematics by mathematicians, writers, scientists, artists and others.

Learn what Alice in Wonderland, Albert Einstein, Williams Shakespeare, Mae West, Plato and others have to say about mathematics.

Paper, 140 pages. 7"x5".4"

#0045X $9.95 $8.99


Once Upon a Dime: A Math Adventure by Nancy Kelly Allen, illustrated by Adam Doyle. Organic farmer Truman Worth discovers that a special tree on his farm produces money, depending on what animal fertilizer he uses. money does grow on trees. Readers calculate the changing value of his crop.

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 6-9.

#1613 $7.95


A Place for Zero by Angela Sparagna LoPresti, illustrated by Phyllis Hornung - Zero is lonely in Digitaria. He can't play Addemup with the other numbers, because he has nothing to add. What's a digit to do?

Join Zero as he goes on a journey to discover his place. His quest takes him from the mysterious workshop of Count Infinity to the palace of King Multiplus, where Zero meets a stranger who looks surprisingly familiar.

#1965X $7.95


PreAlgebra Blastoff!: Understand Positive and Negative Numbers (Ages 8-13)  by Josh Rappaport - This sci-fi comic book format uses interlocking foam manipulatives to demonstrate how numbers combine. The comic book story, Journey to Planet Proto, gives children a fun, sci-fi intro to the world of positive and negative numbers. The included foam manipulatives and learning program let children grasp the rules for positive and negative numbers. Hundreds of problems (answers included) provide thorough practice. Games at the end of the book reinforce learning through educational play.

Paper, 128 pages.

#1365 $14.95


Sold! A Mothematics Adventure by Nathan Zimelman illustrated by Bryn Barnard - Going once, going twice, sold!

Have you ever bought a suit of armor at an auction?
How about a box of quill pens?
What happens if you buy too many treasures?

In this story, a curious boy finds out what it's like to spend money before you have it. Can he somehow multiply the debt into a profit of millions?

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 6-9.

#1675 $6.95



Sir Cumference Math Adventure Series


Follow the adventures of Sir Cumference, his wife Lady Di of Ameter, and their son Radius as they solve mysteries by using math. Children who enjoy knights, dragons, and swords, will enjoy this setting for learning math concepts. Younger children may not "get" all of the terms, but it will be a great introduction for later learning.
 


Sir Cumference and All the King's Tens by Cindy Neuschwander. Sir Cumference and Lady Di planned a surprise birthday party for King Arthur, but they didn’t expect so many guests to show up. How many lunches will they need? And with more guests arriving by the minute, what about dinner? Sir Cumference and Lady Di have to figure out a quick way to count the guests to bring order to the party.

Math skill: place value.

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 8-11.

#7288 $7.95


Sir Cumference and the First Round Table by Cindy Neuschwander- King Arthur was a good ruler, but in this math adventure he needs a good ruler. Geometry is explained with humor in Sir Cumference and the First Round Table, making it fun and accessible for beginners.

What would you do if the neighboring kingdom were threatening war? Naturally, you'd call your strongest and bravest knights together to come up with a solution. But when your conference table causes more problems than the threat of your enemy, you need expert help. Enter Sir Cumference, his wife Lady Di of Ameter, and their son Radius. With the help of the carpenter, Geo of Metry, this sharp-minded team designs the perfect table conducive to discussing the perfect peace plan.

Math skills include learning about circumference, radius and diameter.

Lots of colorful illustrations. Ages 8-11. Paper, 32 pages.

#1521 $7.95


Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi by Cindy Neuschwander - When Sir Cumference turns into a dragon, Lady Di of Ameter helps him hide, while Radius searches for the cure – the magic number that is the same for all circles. A fun way to introduce the concept of pi.

Math skill: derivation of pi.

32 pages. Ages 8-11.

Paper: #1644 $7.95

Hardcover: #1668 $16.95 $12.99 (One copy available).

Celebrate Pi Day on March 14th (3.14)!  I surprised my family this year with two pies that I decorated with the Pi symbol, and they got a huge kick out of it.


Sir Cumference and the Great Knight of Angleland by Cindy Neuschwander - Radius is on a quest to earn his knighthood! With only a circular medallion, a mysterious poem, and his own wits to guide him, he must find and rescue a missing king.

Includes slim plastic protractor attached to the inside back cover.

Math skill: measuring angles.

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 8-11.

#1699 $7.95


Sir Cumference and the Sword in the Cone by Cindy Neuschwander - King Arthur has issued a challenge. The first knight to find the sword Edgecalibur will be the next king. Join Sir Cumference, Lady Di of Ameter, and their son, Radius, as they race to help their friend, Vertex, find the sword and discover the secrets of cubes, pyramids, cylinders, and cones.

Math skill: three-dimensional measurement.

Lots of colorful illustrations. Ages 8-11. Paper, 32 pages.

#6014 $7.95


Sir Cumference and the Isle of Immeter by Cindy Neuschwander. This is the newest Sir Cumference math adventure!Young Per loves to play games. When she visits her uncle Sir Cumference and her aunt Lady Di of Ameter, they teach her a new game. But the game has a hidden message that points to a mysterious island.

Per and her cousin, Radius, set sail for the Isle of Immeter. Can the cousins unlock the secret of Immeter before the fearsome sea serpent finds them?

Math skills include finding the area and perimeter of a rectangle and a circle. Introduces an underlying concept of calculus -- using straight lines to measure curves.

Paper, 32 pages. Ages 8-11.

#6816 $7.95


Sir Cumference FUNPak (six-book set). Includes all six books in the series: Sir Cumference and All the King's Tens, Sir Cumference and the First Round Table, Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi, Sir Cumference and the Great Knight of Angleland, Sir Cumference and the Sword in the Cone, and Sir Cumference and the Isle of Immeter.

#FUN55R $47.70 $42.99


Taking the Numb Out of Numbers: Creative Ideas for Parents and Teachers to Help Children Understand and Enjoy Math by Don Fraser - Who should read this book? Those who like math and those who wish they did; those who are interested in numeracy, literacy and thinking; parents of students in grades 5 through 9.

The book includes lots of graphics, photos, comic strips, excerpts from magazine articles, and other interesting examples of math.

Paper, 192 pages. 8.75"x6"x.5". 1998 edition.

#7088 $16.95 $9.99 One copy available.

Unfolding Mathematics with Unit Origami by Betsy Franco, drawings by Diane Varner - Designed especially for algebra and geometry students in high school or middle school, Unfolding Mathematics with Unit Origami includes:

- Elegant illustrations
- Detailed folding-and-assembly instructions that enable learners to create beautiful and intriguing three-dimensional origami models
- 16 absorbing activities—all in blackline-master form—carefully prepared in order of increasing difficulty of both folds and mathematical concepts
- Through origami folding sequences, basic mathematical ideas reveal themselves. Algebraic and angle relationships and different types of symmetry in two and three dimensions will engage your students' interest in new ways.

You can choose activities from anywhere in the book, but if you move from front to back you'll cover an amazingly broad range of mathematical topics. And while the book's purpose is to teach mathematics, it also introduces students to the art of origami and contributions made to that art by noted origami experts, such as Tomoko Fusè, Kunihiko Kasahara, David Masunaga, and Robert Neale.

- Most activities can be done in an hour and offer opportunities for group work, journal writing, and projects.
- Autobiographical vignettes by origami artists introduce students to origami culture and prompt students to discuss their own experiences with origami.
- The overview explains how you can best use this book in a classroom and includes methods for assessing student work.
- Every activity gives you teaching ideas and strategies, as well as suggestions for extensions of the activity.
- There's also a glossary of terms and a list of recommended readings.

Paper, 115 pages. Ages 12-18+. The book is three-hole punched so you can put the whole book in a binder if you like (but it is also bound if you prefer not to put it in a binder).

#2750X $18.95 $16.99


A Very Improbable Story by Edward Einhorn, illustrated by Adam Gustavson - Ethan wakes up one morning to find a very strange cat stuck on his head. The cat, Odds, refuses to budge until Ethan wins a game of probability. Without looking, Ethan must pick out a dime from his coin collection or two matching socks from his dresser, or do something else improbable. If he doesn't, Odds is there to stay, and Ethan has a 100% chance of missing his big soccer game.

A very improbable story about a challenging math concept.

Ages 7-10.y

Paper, 32 pages. 8.5"x9.5"x.1"

#8728 $7.95


Women and Numbers: Lives of Women Mathematicians by Teri Perl is an fascinating look at the lives of women mathematicians of the 19th and 20th centuries. Our daughter especially enjoyed this book because it presents math from a historical perspective, which made it more relevant to her. Not only are biographies of a variety of women presented (their childhood interests, how they became interested in math, how they used math in their work and lives and more), each chapter has a fun and thought-provoking activity to do.

Paper, 213 pages.

#487X $15.95 $14.99 Out of print, a limited number of copies are available.


Women in Mathematics by Lynn M. Osen - The colorful lives of these women, who often traveled in the most avant-garde circles of their day, are presented in fascinating detail. The obstacles and censures that were also a part of their lives are a sobering reminder of the bias against women still present in this and other fields of academic endeavor. Mathematicians, science historians, and general readers will find this book a lively history...

 Paper, 198 pages (MIT Press). 7.9 x 5.2 x 0.5.

#0096X $21.00 $15.99 One copy available.

 

Math Texts by Harold Jacobs

We are not big fans of most textbooks, but we make an exception for Harold Jacobs. These are not books written by committee and designed to fit the purchasing requirements of some school system. Jacobs is a mathematician who so clearly loves mathematics, that he can't help but communicate that love to readers. He likes to use real-world examples and problems that help show the true value and relevance of math. He presents the complexities of math in a way that makes his books engaging and enjoyable to read. Don't get me wrong, these are still serious textbooks and not necessarily for someone with little interest in math. But if you have an interest in science, engineering, or mathematics and want to advance beyond the principles of basic arithmetic, then these are the books for you.

The instructor's manuals are not required, but they offer answers to all the problems in the textbooks plus lesson plans and suggestions for supplemental activities.

 


Mathematics, A Human Endeavor 3rd edition - This book was highly recommended to us by an experienced homeschooling dad. His oldest, who has since gone on to college, enjoyed using this text as a teenager. Our son used this book after using the Key to series.

Written at a high school/college level (general math or pre-algebra), it covers topics such as large numbers & logarithms, mathematical curves, an introduction to statistics, functions & their graphs, topology and more. The author chooses interesting topics to illustrate math concepts in a fun and interesting way. There are plenty of illustrations, including comic strips, in this useful book.

Hardcover, 678 pages Table of Contents.

#426X $99.95 $79.99

Instructor's Manual: #4227 $64.95 $59.99

Student Workbook by Susan Knueven Wong provides spaces for answers to the problem sets in the above text as well as additional exercises inspired by the text. Paper, 295 pages.
#5398 $27.95

Test Bank by Harold Jacobs provides 855 questions designed to parallel the exercises in the text book. Yes, all of the answers are provided in the back of the book! Paper, 108 pages
#569X $37.95

Mathematics, A Human Endeavor: The Whole Shebang FUNPak - Includes all of the above books: the text, the instructors manual, the student workbook and the test bank.
#FUN50 $230.80 $179.99

Mathematics, A Human Endeavor: Text and Instructor's Manual FUNPak - Includes the text and the instructor's manual.
#FUN51 $164.90 $131.99


Elementary Algebra - Also a high-school/college level text that covers functions & graphs, integers, rational numbers, equations with one and two variables, simultaneous equations, exponents, polynomials, factoring, fractions, square roots, quadratic equations, fractional equations, inequalities and arithmetic/ geometric number sequences. Answers to one set of the exercises are included at the end of the book. Hardcover, 876 pages Table of Contents
#0471 $77.95 $67.99

Teacher's Guide - Contains the rest of the exercise answers not included in the above text (sets 1,3, and 4), as well as: lesson ideas, motivational materials, interesting bibliographical material, common student misconceptions and effective techniques for dealing with them, and additional activities.
#0757 $30.95

Test Masters contains test for each of the 17 chapters along with midyear and final tests. Answers are included along with drill exercises and word problems. Paper, 154 pages.
#0773 $30.95

Transparency Masters - this bound book shows students how the principles in Elementary Algebra work. The transparencies include puzzles, graphs, examples, quizzes, answers to exercises, number tricks, cartoons and more - to reinforce the material in the text. The pages of this book are perforated so that they can be easily removed and used to make projection transparencies with a thermographic reproduction machine. Suggestions for using the transparencies are in the Instructor's Manual.
#0765 $64.95 $61.99


Geometry: Seeing, Doing, Understanding, 3rd edition - We really liked the second edition, and the third edition is even better! There is more focus on informal and paragraph proofs, over 30% more exercises, and almost all of the exercises are new or revised. Problems from the SAT are included as well as examples from around the world and ancient and modern times that help show the real life applications and universal nature of geometry.

The artwork is now in full color and there are over 2,200 new photographs, drawings and cartoons to illustrate the examples and exercises. It is a high school/college level text that covers points, lines and planes; rays and angles; congruent triangles; inequalities; parallel lines; quadrilaterals; area; similarity; circles; the right triangle; the concurrence theorems; regular polygons; geometric solids; non-Euclidean geometry; and coordinate geometry.
A couple of math-professor friends have told us they really like the proofs in this text.

Our son worked independently using this book and met once a week with a friend and a tutor to go over the work. Both boys really enjoyed the text and our son would frequently share bits from the books that he found interesting. It's such a joy to have your child share their enthusiasm for learning new information and to learn something new yourself.

Hardcover, 780 pages Table of Contents.

#3612 $93.95 $74.99

Enhanced Teacher's Guide - much more than just an answer book, there are 603 pages of lesson plans, additional background information on many exercises and, of course, solutions to all exercises in the text book.
#6072 $37.95

Improved Geometry 3rd edition Test Bank - Prepared by Harold Jacobs and long-time Geometry user, Donald M Luepke, this new Test Bank offers 400 new exam questions (1 new test for every chapter, plus new mid-term and final exams). Includes solutions in the back of the book. Paper, 80 pages.
#5942 $37.95

Damaged copy of the Geometry Test Bank - This is more of a defect than damage. The book is covered with a thin layer of plastic and the left edge of this copy has lifted up slightly from the book.
#D-5942 $37.95 $35.99  

Economics:


Whatever Happened to Penny Candy? (Book 2, Uncle Eric series) by Richard Maybury.  I cracked open this book with a bit of trepidation. Throughout my 16 years of schooling, I got excellent grades, except in my college economics class. I had a wonderful teacher, but the subject matter did not hold my interest.

Not only is the Penny Candy book easy to understand, I actually enjoyed it! It explains our economic model, which is based on free-market Austrian economics, and has lots of interesting facts about money. Learn why certain coins have ridges, the origin of the word "dollar," as well as what causes inflation. The book is written as a series of letters from "Uncle Eric" to his 9th grade nephew.

“Maybury challenges the reader to explore the inextricable connections between law and economics, and between economic and political liberty. I can think of no more important subject, and I highly recommend this lucid and thoughtful volume.” —William E. Simon, former U.S. Treasury Secretary

This is the new, 5th edition. Paper, 192 pages. Ages 10-adult. See Economics: A Free Market Reader for further related reading.

#7525 $14.95 $13.99

You can also purchase the student study guide for Whatever Happened to Penny Candy titled, A Bluestocking Guide: Economics.



Bluestocking Guide: Economics, 2nd edition by Jane Williams. (Uncle Eric series). Study guide for Whatever Happened to Penny Candy. Includes chapter-by-chapter comprehensive questions/answers for Penny Candy, suggested activities, articles that expand on concepts presented in Penny Candy, resources, a final exam, and an economic timetable. 

This study guide is designed for multi-age level use for ages 10 through 18.

Paper, 127 pages. 8-1/2" x 11".

#7576 $16.95 $15.99



We carry all the books in the Uncle Eric series.
 


Economics: A Free Market Reader contains a collection of thirteen articles by noted economists selected to enhance students' understanding and appreciation of the subject of free market economics. Thought and comprehension questions/answers (original to the book) are also provided for each article. The articles were selected to accompany Richard J. Maybury's book, Whatever Happened to Penny Candy? and its corresponding Bluestocking Guide: Economics, but the book can stand on its own.

(Note: These selected articles originally appeared in The Foundation for Economic Education’s monthly study journal, The Freeman, and were subsequently reprinted in Free Market Economics: A Reader.)

I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.

Ages 12+ Excellent for economics courses.

Paper, 128 pages, 5-1/2” x 8-1/2”.

#7443 $12.95

Key to...series

Published by the Miquon Math folks (Key Curriculum Press), this is a very inexpensive series of workbooks that could be used independently, after completing the Miquon series or as a supplement to another program.

Studies have shown that countries that do well in math use texts that focus narrowly and in depth. Most schools in the U.S. try to cover too many topics, using huge textbooks, and have to cram the information into students in order to complete all the topics in the time allotted. The result? A very shallow understanding of many topics.

The Key to...workbooks use a step-by-step approach, with clear and direct instruction. The books have large type, lots of white space, and present only one concept per page or two. There are three to 10 workbooks in each series, and each fairly short in length.

We've listed the books according to their recommended grade level, but you need to determine what will work best for your child. You may have a younger child who is ready for more complex mathematical concepts or an older child who needs more practice or review.

We've included all workbooks and answers/notes in each kit. Reproducible tests are sold separately, where available.

wpe14.jpg (1956 bytes) Key to Fractions Kit Covers basic concepts to mixed numbers. Grades 4-12. 4 workbooks, 1 answer/notes book.
#KC01 $18.45 $16.75

Key to Fractions Reproducible Tests Grades 4-12.
#4961 $11.50 $10.35

Key to Decimals Kit Begins with basics concepts and operations on decimals. Then it covers real-world uses of decimals in pricing, sports, metrics, calculators and science. Grades 4-12. 4 workbooks, 1 answer/notes book.
#KC03 $18.45 $16.75

Key to Decimals Reproducible Tests Grades 4-12.
#4260 $11.50 $10.35

Key to Percents Kit Emphasizes mental computation and estimation skills first and then solving percent problems using fractions and decimal multiplication. Finally, percents are used to solve word problems in a variety of applications. Grades 4-12. 3 workbooks, 1 answer/notes book.
#KC05 $15.00 $13.50

Key to Percents Reproducible Tests Grades 4-12.
#4953 $11.50 $10.35

Key to Algebra Kit New concepts are presented in simple language. Word problems relate algebra to familiar situations, helping students understand abstract concepts. Books 1-4 study integers, Books 5-7 introduce rational numbers and expressions, and Books 8-10 extend coverage to the real number system. Grades 5-12. 10 workbooks, 3 answer/notes books.
#KC07 $48.45 $43.75

Key to Algebra Reproducible Tests Grades 5-12.
#012X $15.60 $14.00

Key to Geometry Kit Learners prepare for formal geometry as they do step-by-step constructions. Using only a pencil, straightedge, and compass, they begin by drawing lines, bisecting angles and reproducing segments. Later they do sophisticated constructions involving over a dozen steps and are prompted to form their own generalizations. When they finish, they've been introduced to 134 geometric terms and are ready to tackle formal proofs. Grades 4-12. 8 workbooks, 4 answer/notes books.
#KC09 $59.80 $49.99

Key to Measurement Kit Covers English units of length; measuring length & perimeter using English units; finding area and volume, using English units; and English units for weight, capacity, temperature and time. A variety of hands-on experiences are used to related to the English system of measurement. Grades 4-12. 4 workbooks, 1 answer/notes book.
#KC10 $18.45 $16.75

Key to Metric Measurement Kit In this newest series of the Key to . . . workbooks, users learn how to measure in metric units – the only system used in international commerce and communication, and one becoming more and more prevalent in the U.S. Covers: metric units of length; measuring length and perimeter using metric units; finding area and volume using metric units; and metric units for mass, capacity, temperature, and time. Grades 4-12, 4 workbooks, 1 answers/notes book.
#KC11 $18.45 $16.75

Other Helpful Math Manipulatives

Don't forget to look at the Cuisenaire Rods!


Jungle Animals: Set of 60 Counters - An imaginative way to learn to count, sort and classify as well as learn about exotic creatures in distant lands. This set of 60 detailed jungle animals includes 5 each of 12 different species. Includes "Did You Know?" animal fun facts to encourage children to learn more.

Our son loved playing with similar little animals when he was young and would frequently group them into different categories. When he was three and visiting the home of a friend's mother (a Montessori teacher), she was very impressed with his "early math skills". He was simply having fun playing with his toys!

Packaged in a reusable storage bucket. Plastic.

#0697 $24.99 $12.99 Sale!

 

Tangrams An ancient Chinese puzzle containing seven pieces - five triangles, one parallelogram, and one square. The pieces are all created from a larger square.

Shape recognition, spatial reasoning, size comparison and design are some of the concepts encouraged by tangrams. Set of 4 (one each of red, blue, yellow and green). These are fun to use with the book, Grandfather Tang (see below). Ages 5-12.


#2290 $4.50




Grandfather Tang's Story by Ann Tompert. Grandfather Tang tells Little Soo a story about two fox fairies, Chou and Wu Ling, who can change their shapes. They try to outdo each other by changing into various animals. For instance, when Wu Ling changes himself into a rabbit, Chou changes into a dog and chases him. Every time Wu Ling changes into a different animal, Chou changes into one that can chase him. Their game goes further than they imagine and they come close to losing their friendship.

Besides showing the value of friendships, diagrams throughout the book encourage readers to create their own tangram shapes. Illustrated with lovely watercolor paintings. Readers can make their own tangrams to accompany the book or you can purchase a set of our tangrams.

Paper, 34 pages.

#5581 $6.99


Base Ten Blocks Activity Book - Providing activities and exercises for use with base ten block materials, this book explores number operations, place value, area, volume and fractions. You need to provide your own base ten block material for use with this book.

Paper, 96 pages.

#5478 $9.95 $4.99 Super Special!

More Math Pages

Miquon Math Materials

Cuisenaire Rods

Other Helpful Math Manipulatives

Murderous Maths

Statistics

Uncle Eric Books

 

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