Fundamentals of Math, second edition (2009)

MathGrade 7

About This Curriculum

A comprehensive 7th grade math curriculum covering whole numbers, decimals, number theory, fractions, rational numbers, percents, measurement, geometry, area/volume, probability/statistics, integers, and introduction to algebra.

What makes it unique: Integrates biblical principles throughout math instruction with biographical sketches of biblical and historical figures, while providing a solid foundation for upper-level math courses.

Fundamentals of Math, Second Edition: Traditional Christian Pre-Algebra Program

Fundamentals of Math, second edition is a comprehensive 7th grade mathematics curriculum from BJU Press that covers foundational arithmetic through introductory algebra topics. The program integrates Christian worldview perspectives throughout and provides flexible teaching options with enhanced examples and explanations for more independent study capability.

Best for

Homeschool families seeking a traditional, Christian-based math curriculum for 7th grade that supports both teacher-led instruction and independent learning with comprehensive review and assessment materials.

Evaluation Criteria

5 strengths · 4 neutral

Worked ExamplesStrength

The second edition significantly enhanced worked examples to support independent learning. The curriculum includes detailed examples and explanations within lesson presentations.

Second edition 'added many examples and skill checks to each lesson presentation so students could work through lessons independently'; detailed examples help students understand procedures

Direct InstructionStrength

The program strongly supports direct instruction with comprehensive teacher materials and lesson introductions. The curriculum is designed to be 'taught' rather than used independently.

Two-volume teacher edition provides 'lesson introductions, explanations, and enhancements that should be presented by the teacher'; course 'really should be taught rather than used for independent study'

Retrieval PracticeStrength

The curriculum incorporates systematic review through cumulative review sections in each subsection and chapter reviews. This supports spaced practice of previously learned skills.

Each subsection includes 'cumulative review questions' and chapters have chapter reviews; Activity Manual provides 'abundant review and practice' with cumulative reviews

Sequencing ApproachStrength

The program uses a mastery-based approach with dedicated chapters for each topic rather than spiral sequencing. Each chapter addresses a separate topic thoroughly before moving to the next concept.

Review explicitly states this 'differs from the spiral approach of Saxon Math; this text addresses a separate topic within each chapter rather than teaching new topics in increments'

Assessment DiagnosticStrength

The curriculum includes multiple assessment options with quizzes, chapter tests, and cumulative tests. Skill checks are embedded within lessons for ongoing evaluation.

Separate Test Packet with 'quizzes, chapter tests, and cumulative tests'; second edition added 'skill checks to each lesson presentation' for formative assessment

Word ProblemsNeutral

The curriculum includes practical life applications and numerous word problems throughout. Biblical applications are also integrated to provide real-world contexts.

Text includes 'practical life applications often included, especially in the numerous word problems'; Activity Manual includes 'Biblical application, word problems'

Teacher TrainingNeutral

The comprehensive teacher materials provide mathematical background and pedagogical guidance, though formal training programs are not mentioned. The teacher edition includes detailed lesson support.

Two-volume teacher edition with lesson introductions, explanations, and enhancements; includes CD-ROM with visual aids and math game for classroom use

Visual RepresentationsNeutral

The curriculum includes visual elements and uses a large format to avoid crowded pages. A CD-ROM with visual aids is included in the teacher edition.

Full-color text in 8.5" x 11" format keeps pages from appearing overwhelming; Teacher Edition CD-ROM includes visual aids for classroom use

Conceptual Procedural BalanceNeutral

The curriculum appears to balance conceptual understanding with procedural practice through its chapter structure and review components. The enhanced second edition added more examples and skill checks to support both conceptual learning and procedural fluency.

Teacher edition provides conceptual explanations and enhancements, while student text includes skill checks and abundant practice problems; cumulative review sections reinforce procedural skills

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com, joyintheordinary.com