Math Program

Purpose
To provide individuals with an understanding of basic concepts that underpin all mathematics, while mastering basic arithmetic functions. This includes skills like counting, recognizing numeral symbols, understanding place value, and performing arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), as well as working with fractions and decimals. The program also covers practical tasks such as telling time, using a calendar, handling money, and balancing a checkbook. Advanced math topics may be included based on the client’s goals and age.

Age

Suitable for children and adults aged eight and above.

Length of Program
Approximately 30-48 hours, typically conducted over five to eight consecutive days, with unlimited hours of follow-up consultation included.

Outcome
By the conclusion of the facilitated program, individuals will have acquired all the mental focusing tools and grown comfortable with their use. Participants will enhance their ability to maintain attention and focus, correct perceptual distortions, and gain knowledge of methods for mastering mathematical language and symbols. They will develop a strong foundation in basic math concepts and a comprehensive understanding of the principles of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Note
Our program focuses on comprehension rather than rote memorization. Math concepts are learned through tangible, ‘real-life’ experiences before being applied to paper. Students progress sequentially from the basics, addressing gaps in their prior knowledge through this method.

Develops

Core Conceptual Knowledge
Achieving mastery of the essential building blocks of mathematics, such as change, consequence, time, sequence, order, and comprehension of the base ten system.

Math Symbol and Language
Recognizing mathematical signs and their meanings (e.g., +, -, x, <, =, >, %), along with understanding the vocabulary used in math contexts.

Memory
Enhancing the retention of fundamental math facts through mastery, recalling steps for solving math problems (such as long division or algebra), and improving mental math skills.

Cognitive Development
Correcting numeral reversals, properly aligning numerals in columns for calculations, and paying attention to operational symbols (+, -, x, ÷).

Word Problems
Accurately reading and interpreting word problems, discerning what the problem is asking, distinguishing crucial information from irrelevant details, and developing a plan to solve the problem.

Positive Thinking
Maintaining a relaxed mindset to optimize learning potential, recognizing and alleviating stress before it escalates to frustration during math tasks, and implementing strategies to reduce test anxiety.

Reduces

• Inconsistency or ‘careless’ errors
• Tendency to count objects inaccurately and get a different result each time

• Tendency to input information incorrectly into a calculator, resulting in varied answers
• Reversing numerals
• Misalignment of numerals in columns during calculations
• Misreading or overlooking operation symbols (+, -, x, ÷)
• Difficulties with place value, such as remembering to carry or borrow and aligning decimals
• Dependency on memorization instead of understanding
• Anxiety, headaches, dizziness, stomach aches related to math
• Difficulty understanding word problems
• Experiencing fatigue
• Knowing the answer but unable to show the work

Math Program Tools

The Programs provided at Rocky Point Academy get to the root of learning challenges. Each client leaves with a “tool box” The following are a list of tools that may be provided.

Click the pictures below to see a larger version of the tools' descriptions.

Orientation Procedure

This procedure corrects inaccurate perceptions in vision, hearing, balance, movement, or time. It assists in maintaining a focused state, reading and comprehending printed text, accurately processing spoken words, and enhancing activities that involve coordination or social skills.

Dial

The dial empowers the client with conscious control over their energy levels, allowing them to adjust to the most appropriate level. This technique is beneficial in social or learning environments for effective communication or productivity. Additionally, it provides the ability to manage frustration or anxiety. As an extra advantage, it can also be applied to improve sleep and performance in sports!

Release

Release is a tool crafted to alleviate frustration and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and simplify learning. Intentionally "releasing" boosts blood flow and oxygen to the brain, enhancing creativity, problem-solving abilities, and energy levels. It makes learning smooth and effortless.

Neural Network Development

Kinaesthetic and balance exercises are utilized to strengthen the neural network involved in maintaining a focused state, accurately processing information, and staying engaged in tasks.

Symbol Mastery

Brain scans reveal that the processes of creating and learning are so intricately connected that they trigger the same brain activity. Language and mathematics consist of many symbols, including letters, punctuation marks, words, numerals, math operation symbols, and more. Mastering these symbols in clay ensures clarity and removes any confusion, providing a solid foundation for language development, including reading, writing, and expressive and receptive language. It also enables a student to confidently determine what the equation is asking for in mathematics, providing clarity in solving problems.

Concept Mastery

Entails the development, exploration, and application of essential life concepts. These foundational elements are crucial for all learning, behavior, and productivity. They are also the foundations for all math. Mastery of these concepts aids in:
• Effective planning and organization
• Task initiation
• Enhancing flexible thinking
• Sustaining focus
• Boosting working memory
• Advancing time management skills
• Strengthening impulse control
• Improving social skills
• Building self-motivation
• Increasing the ability to understand and think mathematically

Math Exercises

Our math exercises start at kindergarten level and progress to the client's current grade level, filling in any gaps along the way. Manipulatives/clay are used to ensure each developmental concept is understood rather than memorized. Exploring mathematical symbols through symbol mastery (see symbol mastery tool) helps resolve confusion in written equations. The areas addressed include:
• Arithmetic: The study of numbers and the basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, including decimals and fractions.
• Algebra: Involves variables and the rules for manipulating these symbols to solve equations and understand mathematical relationships.
• Geometry: Focuses on the properties and relationships of shapes, sizes, and figures, including concepts like points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids.
• Trigonometry: Deals with the relationships between the angles and sides of triangles, and the functions derived from them.
If a student is in high school, we can progress into higher level math.

100 Ball Grid

One of the most common goals among our clients is to quickly recall their math facts. If this is the case, it is likely that flash cards have not been effective. We employ a tool called the 100-ball grid. This tool helps visualize actual quantities instead of just numerals, enhancing comprehension and retention. The grid can be used to demonstrate and learn addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and even squares/square roots. Using the grid enhances precision, confidence, and understanding of mathematical operations.

Mental Math

Refers to the ability to perform mathematical calculations in one's head without the use of calculators, paper, or other aids. This skill is developed through manipulatives, visual strategies and mastery of place value. It boosts confidence, enhances numeracy, and improves problem-solving efficiency in everyday math.

Auditory Fine-Tuning

This process is specifically designed to ensure precise perception across all senses, enhancing receptive and expressive language, communication, balance, and motor skills.

Concentration Bubble

A visualization tool designed to enhance intention and focus. It can also be valuable for reducing anxiety and increasing confidence when presenting to others.

Mindset Modification Tool

The importance of mindset lies in its profound impact on how individuals perceive and respond to situations, especially for nonverbal learners who perceive pictures so vividly. When one begins to recognize and alter an unproductive mindset quickly and easily, it will:
• Enhance Learning: Facilitate better understanding and retention of information.
• Boost Confidence: Increase self-assurance by overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing challenges with a positive outlook.
• Improve Problem-Solving: Enable more creative and efficient problem-solving by approaching situations with an open and flexible mindset.
• Reduce Anxiety: Minimize feelings of stress and anxiety by reframing negative thoughts and focusing on constructive perspectives.

Organizational Strategies

Choose from a variety of organizational strategies to effectively arrange binders, bills, clothing, paperwork, crafts, collections, and more. Organization is proven to:
• Increase Productivity
• Reduce Stress
• Enhance Efficiency
• Improve Focus
• Foster a Positive Environment

Managing Bullying

Managing Bullying: We hope that our children never have to experience this, but reality tells a different story. These techniques have proven highly effective in reducing and eliminating bullying.

Rocky Point Academy

Math Program

Develops

Reduces

Math Program Tools

(403) 685-0067