I love Dr. Sharma's comparison of reading and math. We have been using Dr. Sharma's method in our math block for a few weeks now. He also came to speak and demonstrate lessons at our school.

This method covers the fundamentals of mathematics and goes beyond as we learn how to use the right tools universally across grade levels. We begin our class with 10 minutes of review. Then we break off into two groups. The students remain engaged throughout the presentation.

We also have a short time devoted to games that encourages development of:

1. following sequential directions

2. identifying pattern analysis

3. visualization

Students should have solid number sense. They should be able to see it, say it, and create a visual image in their minds before we move on and present additional layers. Students are beginning to memorize patterns already after this short period of time working with this method. "Number is the alphabet of math." (Dr. Sharma, 12/02/2009 - Presentation at the Deerfield Community School).