About the Peterson Method
This course follows the innovative mathematical curriculum developed by Dr. Lyudmila Peterson, a renowned Russian educator and mathematician. Peterson's approach emphasizes developing logical thinking, creative problem-solving abilities, and a genuine love for mathematics through systematic skill-building and conceptual understanding.
Course Overview
This 5-week intensive program covers fundamental second-grade mathematical concepts through Peterson's proven methodology, focusing on logical reasoning, geometric understanding, and advanced arithmetic operations with multi-digit numbers.
Weekly Curriculum
Logic: Chains and Transformations
Students begin with foundational logical thinking through chain patterns and their transformations.
- Sequential reasoning skills
- Pattern recognition and continuation
- Understanding of mathematical relationships
- Problem-solving through logical progression
Geometry: Lines and Spatial Relationships
- Points as the foundation of geometric thinking
- Straight vs. curved lines and their properties
- Intersecting lines and understanding intersection points
- Parallel lines and their characteristics
- Spatial visualization and geometric vocabulary
Column Method Addition
- Basic two-digit addition using column alignment
- Adding single digits to two-digit numbers (e.g., 21+9)
- Adding two two-digit numbers (e.g., 21+39)
- Understanding place value through column organization
Advanced Addition Strategies
- Addition with regrouping (carrying): 36+7, 36+17
- Addition by decomposition: 18+5, 18+25
- Multiple solution pathways for flexibility in thinking
Column Method Subtraction & Regrouping
- Basic subtraction without regrouping
- Subtracting from multiples of 10: 40-8
- Two-digit subtraction: 40-28
- Borrowing techniques: 32-5, 32-15
- Understanding place value exchanges
Mental Arithmetic Techniques
- Number sense strategies
- Mental calculation shortcuts
- Estimation skills
- Quick calculation methods
- Problem-solving using addition and subtraction
- Real-world application of learned techniques
Understanding Hundreds & Complex Operations
- Place value to hundreds: 100, 200, 300...
- Measurement connections: Introduction to meters
- Number notation with zeros: 204, 240
- Comparing three-digit numbers
- Basic three-digit addition: 261+124, 372-162
- Addition with regrouping: 204+138, 162+153
- Multi-addend problems: 167+45+308
- Complex subtraction with regrouping: 231-145, 300-156
Key Learning Outcomes
🧩 Logical Thinking
Master logical thinking through chain analysis and pattern recognition
📐 Geometric Understanding
Understand fundamental geometric concepts and spatial relationships
🧮 Arithmetic Fluency
Demonstrate fluency with multi-digit operations using multiple methods
⚡ Mental Math
Apply mental mathematics strategies for efficient calculation
🔢 Number Sense
Work confidently with three-digit numbers and their operations
💡 Problem Solving
Solve complex word problems using appropriate mathematical strategies
Teaching Philosophy
Following Peterson's methodology, this course emphasizes:
Before procedural fluency
To develop flexible thinking
Reasoning as the basis for all math
Confidence through mastery
Making mathematics meaningful
This comprehensive program provides students with a solid mathematical foundation while fostering curiosity, confidence, and creative problem-solving abilities that will serve them throughout their mathematical journey.
