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SCORE! Helps with Reformed and Traditional Math

Chicago, October 2, 2006 -- Memorizing formulas, learning fixed step-by-step procedures, using traditional algorithms and reciting multiplication tables usually bring back memories of their own math classrooms for many parents. These days though, students are increasingly being asked to use their own knowledge to explore new math concepts and to problem solve at an earlier stage. This new “reformed math” approach, which is being implemented by more and more districts across the country, can be confusing to parents who were schooled in the traditional mathematics approach, according to SCORE! Educational Centers (www.escore.com). “More and more parents are asking us about the reformed math curriculum. They don't know how to help their kids with their homework,” said Steve Johnson, Vice President of Education at SCORE!. “SCORE!'s tutoring programs work with kids to build their skills and confidence, especially when their parents have difficulty helping them meet their goals.” In traditional math programs, students learn through direct instruction. Teachers typically present new material to students by explaining the rules and algorithms and by providing examples for students to follow. Students first practice these skills and then work to apply them to solve real-world problems. Reformed math programs typically use the concept of “discovery learning” to present new theories and concepts to students. Students are initially given a problem to solve before any rules or procedures are presented. The student then uses their prior knowledge of math concepts to solve the problem. Many times, the algorithms presented to today's students use a reformed math curriculum. These are not the same algorithms that these students' parents learned when they were in school. “Parents may not recognize the way in which their children are solving math problems these days. For instance, in some reform-based curriculums, students do not use the long-division algorithm to solve division problems,” said Johnson. “However, even though the approaches differ between the two types of programs, parents can still learn to help their kids. Since the content of both types of curriculum is generally the same, parents just need to learn more about the different methods.” SCORE! Can Help SCORE! is helping kids -- and their parents -- learn more about traditional and reform math, and how to build kids' confidence and skills through an active, hands-on approach to learning. Every aspect of the SCORE! experience is designed to help students succeed, while making sure they enjoy the learning process. About SCORE! SCORE! Educational Centers, Inc. is a division of Kaplan, a leading provider of after-school learning programs for children in grades pre-K through 10. With the goal of helping children reach their academic potential in math, reading, spelling and writing, SCORE!'s program includes personal coaching, positive reinforcement and a customized curriculum that adapts to each child's pace and learning needs. SCORE! serves 82,000 students annually in 165 centers located in 11 states across the country. Kaplan is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO). For further information, please visit www.escore.com or call 1-800-49-SCORE.