As a TOS Crew member, I received two dvd's from MathTutorDVD.com to review, Young Minds Numbers and Counting and The Basic Math Word Problem Tutor. These are two of the numerous instructional dvd's available from mathtutordvd.com .The Young Minds Numbers and Counting dvd focuses on counting concepts, providing vivid images and colors and appealing-to-kids photos that visualize the concept of the lower counting numbers, showing the kids what 1, 2, 3, etc. look like as classical compositions play in the background. Killing two birds with one stone, so to speak. Along with my kids, I viewed the Young Minds Numbers and Counting dvd. While my elementary girls soon wandered off to play, my 4-year-old was held by the vibrant colors and the apparent suspence of wondering which number would come next. He responded to the different images with enthusiasm and interest as the dvd progressed. And it normally takes something pretty engaging to keep him watching.
My take on this dvd in a nutshell? While I was impressed with the quality of this one, the vibrant images and the way it took plenty of time to visualize each amount, I was disappointed when I went online and checked out the price. The list price is $29.
99, and the purchase price is $19.99.
99, and the purchase price is $19.99. We also examined The Basic Math Word Problem Tutor, which is an 8-hour course. What does it cover? The following is from the product description on the mathtutordvd.com website.
Disc 1
Section 1: Adding Whole Numbers
Section 2: Subtracting Whole Numbers
Section 3: Multiplying Whole Numbers
Section 4: Dividing Whole Numbers
Section 5: Adding Decimals
Section 6: Subtracting Decimals
Section 7: Multiplying Decimals
Section 8: Dividing Decimals
Disc 2
Section 9: Adding Fractions
Section 10: Subtracting Fractions
Section 11: Multiplying Fractions
Section 12: Dividing Fractions
Section 13: Percents, Part 1
Section 14: Percents, Part 2
Section 15: Ratio and Proportion
After viewing it, it was immediately clear that this is for at least upper level elementary students. The instructor, Jason Gibson, does present the material in a fairly clear manner, but I was concerned with the wordiness of the dvd when using it with elementary level kids. The students have got to really be able to hang with this one and pay attention to each step. Now, he does really break down each problem, guide the students through deciphering the mathematical jargon to determine what is being asked and what needs to be done, but this one really is aimed at the traditional learner in its format as Mr. Gibson explains and executes each problem with his dry erase board behind him. This one, to me, would serve a homeschooling family best as a tool for the parent who is unsure of his or her own word problem solving skills as the teacher, to help the parent become more knowledgeable as they customize this knowledge to work with their own kids. I know we are presently in the beginning stages of solving word problems around here, and I'm big on incorporating as many of the senses and avenues of learning as I can. Now, for older students who can pay attention well and just need some extra practice, this may be just the thing. You can check out video samples on the website here.
The price on this one is $26.99. Again, it does contain a lot of information, but I am concerned about the price. I suggest that you carefully consider how your kids learn before purchasing this.
MathTutorDVD.com has a large number of products. You can find out more about these and the creator Jason Gibson by visiting the MathTutorDVD.com website here. You can also read of TOS Crew members' reviews here.
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