MATHEMATICS

Mathematic studies first focus on further reinforcing and strengthening basic skills and concepts in order to provide a firm foundation to build upon. Through numerical problems, students improve the speed and accuracy of their skills. For more advanced levels, emphasis will also be placed on test-taking skills and word problems. Students are encouraged in logical analysis, and to understand that mathematical thinking is based upon a step-by-step process, with one concept building upon another.

ABACUS (SOROBAN)

A traditional manual calculator, the abacus was introduced to Japan from China in the 16th century. Abacus arithmetic was, along with reading and writing, a central element in traditional education, and was made a part of the official school curriculum in 1926. Skilled abacus users can carry out fairly complex computations at high speeds. The Japanese believe that learning the abacus develops children’s abilities to handle figures.

** The Renaissance Academy does not believe in soroban studies on its own. This course may only be taken in conjunction with a mathematics program.