Saxon Math and Nancy Larson® Science author shared the secrets of her program’s success at NCTM Research Presession meeting
Old Lyme, Conn. – (May 29, 2012) – Nancy Larson, renowned author of Saxon Math and Nancy Larson® Science, told educators at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) spring conference that she is always focused on one item when writing curriculum: the long-term success of the student.
Larson was invited to speak on the accomplishments of Saxon Math as part of the session named “Curriculum Matters: Why are some curricula more effective?” The methodology Larson used throughout the curriculum was proven effective in a 2009 study.
Larson’s program uses integrated content and incremental steps built into each new lesson. The material is not divided into chapters. Instead, concepts are integrated and the learning process is spread out over time. The goal is to give teachers the tools they need to make sure their students can succeed. “I wanted to set up the learning process so students were prepared to take the next step in each new lesson,” said Larson.
When writing Saxon Math, Larson spent hundreds of hours in classrooms refining the language, building in classroom management, and making sure the program was engaging for students and teachers.
“I write curriculum for the children and teachers,” Larson added. “I believe children want to be successful, and they can achieve success with my program that has been tested and developed in real classrooms.”
While Larson continues to update and improve Saxon Math, she has turned her attention to bringing her curriculum vision to science. Over the past seven years, she has worked closely with exemplary teachers to develop Nancy Larson® Science. The Science K–3 program is currently used in 48 states and three other countries, and this summer, after four years of field testing, Science 4 will be available. Nancy Larson® Science is a research based program. It is ideal for schools looking for an in-depth, content rich program that exceeds the standards.
“In both curricula, I strive to make the lessons easy for busy teachers to teach and engaging for children,” Larson said. “The success comes from a systematic approach that introduces new concepts and reinforces previous lessons. We must resist the disorganized curriculum, or pick-and-choose teaching, aimed solely at teaching to standardized tests. My teaching techniques ensure concepts will be remembered even after the dismissal bell rings.”
To review the study, click here.
About Nancy Larson® Science
The goal of Nancy Larson® Science is to be a comprehensive, hands-on science curriculum that is engaging and challenging for children while being fun and easy for teachers to teach. Larson worked closely with classroom teachers and incorporated extensive field-testing to develop a program that provides children with a solid foundation and the skills needed to be successful in their academic futures. Currently Nancy Larson® Science offers Science K, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.