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Math Dictionary for Kids: The Essential Guide to Math Terms, Strategies, and Tables, Grades 4-9

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A must-have for parents and students alike, Math Dictionary for Kids is a comprehensive resource that provides definitions, descriptions, and illustrations in all areas of elementary and middle school mathematics. It is designed to explain the language and concepts of mathematics in easily understood terms for school and home use.

134 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2005

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Yolanda.
251 reviews
August 1, 2011
Thank you to Goodreads giveaways for this book.

This book is colorful, informative and fun. The definitions are concise and clear which is great for kids. There are several charts, graphs and other quick ways to memorize and learn the concepts. I had the two kids that are between the grades 4-9 recommendation look through it. One liked, tried the charts and enjoyed the format. The other, looked through it without much comment because "it is still summer break!", which is why I was interested in the book in the first place. I think this is great for most accessible bookshelf in the house.
Profile Image for Ashley.
15 reviews2 followers
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November 20, 2016
Fitzgerald, T. R., & Fitzgerald, T. R. (2014). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math terms, strategies, and tables. Waco, Tex: Prufrock Press.
Type of Reference: Dictionary
Call Number: REF 513.2 Fitz
Content/Scope: This dictionary provides information on mathematical instruction related to measurement, algebra, geometry, and problem solving.
Accuracy/Authority/Bias: This book is recognized as a leading guide for school and public libraries on mathematical topics for upper elementary and middle school students.
Arrangement/Presentation: This book is arranged into seven easy to read chapters, which are arranged in alphabetical order. Color images and examples are contained within each chapter. This new addition has more than 40 entries.
Relation to other works: This book would be a great companion to other mathematical reference works found within the library and could be useful to the many RTI students within the school.
Accessibility/Diversity: According to the professional review “concepts such as those presented in the “Measurement Conversion Tables” chapter make this offering relevant for studies other than just math.”
Cost: $13.95
Professional Review: Divided into seven main chapters for topics such as “Measurement,” “Algebraic Ideas,” “Geometry,” and “Problem Solving” in addition to chapters dedicated to reference guides, manipulatives, and formulas to name a few, this text is a strong guide for school and public libraries. Listed alphabetically within each chapter, mathematical concepts are presented with straightforward explanations accompanied by color images and examples when necessary. This edition includes more than 40 new entries—a combination of new words with their definitions that are related to (and perhaps more familiar than) those previously defined. The inclusion of more simple terms and concepts such as equal, fewer, and greater makes this guide appropriate for younger students as well. A lengthy “Quick Reference Guide: Problem Solving Step by Step” details a variety of ways to solve word problems and encourages students to discover individualized approaches. A “Common Core State Standards Alignment” spread explains the standards for grades four through eight. While illustrations sometimes make use of fun objects like ice-cream cones, cars, or pieces of candy, the images won’t deter older students. Concepts such as those presented in the “Measurement Conversion Tables” chapter make this offering relevant for studies other than just math. VERDICT A useful offering for STEM collections.–Meaghan Darling, Long Hill Township Public Library, Gillette, NJ
Published: 2014 (4th Edition)
Reference: Darling, M. (2016). Guides to Nutrition, Math, and Careers | Reference Reviews. Retrieved November 19, 2016, from http://www.slj.com/2015/06/reviews/re...
261 reviews
September 9, 2011
This is my very first give-away book and what a prize!

This "Essential guide to math terms, strategies and tables" by Theresa R. Fitzgerald is geared to students in grades 4-9. Colorful and well-organized, it is full of information that only a teacher would think to include, like the section on Basic Math Tools and Equipment. For example, this section describes what an "attribute block" is. I remember when my children were in elementary school, searching high and low for a geoboard, and not even knowing what it should look like. And who knows what a "Cuisenaire rod," is outside of an elementary school? Flipping quickly to this section, that information and more can be found in alphabetical order, along with a color photo.

Another thing that I like is the way the book is set up. The definitions in the book are organized by topic such as "Whole Numbers and Operations" (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, for the mathematically challenged, like me!); "Measurement"; and "Statistics and Probability". Along with topic and page number, the Table of Contents has color coding so that the section can be easily found along the edge of the book, which has colored edges. So, "Algebraic ideas," written in blue in the Table is found by thumbing the blue edge and opening the book, much like an almanac, or by going to page 39. Whatever works for you.

Students will find the "Tables and Charts" and the "Measurement Conversion Tables" especially useful. Along with the above, parents will also appreciate the "Quick Reference Guide" when their student is confused about i.e. how to multiply fractions, something that they have not done in 30 years and the "Problem Solving" section when they have racked their brains using all the strategies that they know and find in the suggestions under the term "strategy" that the problem could be solved by "acting it out." (Now why didn't I think about that?!)

So in short, I think this is one of the best math homework helpers I've seen. Why the 4 rating? I found a couple of examples a little confusing and a few of the definitions, a little unclear, coming from an elementary school perspective. Overall a very good investment for a reference tool that will take a student from decimals through algebra and geometry.
15 reviews
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April 21, 2016
Title of Item in APA Citation: Math dictionary for kids : the essential guide to math terms, strategies, and tables. (2014). Waco, Texas : Prufrock Press.

Citation By: Lauren Rataj

Reference Type: Dictionary

Call Number: Ref 423

Brief Description: This resource contains definitions and illustrated examples of mathematical terms that will enable students to solve math challenges that they face at school or at home.

Content/Scope: This dictionary is targeted for students’ in grades 4-9. It provides information on mathematical terms in the topics of measurement, algebra, geometry, fractions and decimals, statistics, probability and problem solving.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: This resource is published by Prufrock Press. This company is well known in the educational world and creates resources for gifted and talented and special needs learners. Their resources directly connect with common core standards.

Arrangement/Presentation: This resource is organized by mathematical categories or “domains”. They include measurement, algebra, geometry, fractions and decimals, statistics, probability and problem solving. Within these categories, they are in alphabetic order. The dictionary includes many modes of explanation including words, pictures and diagrams.

Relation to other works: There are many types of dictionaries for students, but most are used for looking up word meanings, pronunciations or for spelling. I think that this is a great resource because it specifically supports math common core standards.

Accessibility/Diversity: This resource meets the needs of many learners and can be used by students of all abilities. It supports visual learners through text, illustrations and diagrams. It supports auditory learners through the included app. The app has the same content but allows students to listen to the definition using the audio feature.

Cost: $9.99

Professional Review: School Library Journal. (2015, June). Math Dictionary for Kids: The Essential Guide to Math Terms, Strategies, and Tables. School Library Journal, 61(6), 70-71.
Profile Image for Jessica.
15 reviews
Want to read
December 1, 2012
Title:
Math Dictionary for Kids: The Essential Guide to Math Terms, Strategies, and Tables

Author: Theresa Fitzgerald

Item Call Number:
QA5 .F58 2006

Location:
WKU ED Center

Description:
The book includes instructions for basic operations and tables of commonly-used facts and equivalents. It also contains a reference of more than 400 full-color, illustrated definitions. Children will be able to quickly find the definitions and illustrated examples that will enable them to solve many of the math challenges they face. Math Dictionary for Kids gives students in elementary grades definitions, illustrations, and examples that can help them solve math problems.

Relevance and Relationship:
Each term has a concise definition and an example or illustration. This is a guide that needs to be in every child's desk. The book contains more than four hundred math definitions that will help students solve many of the math challenges they face.

Purpose:
This book is designed to help assist elementary students develop basic math skills. It aids students in improving their understanding of mathematical concepts.

Validity:
4.5 out of 5 stars
This book has received several positive editorial reviews, including School Library Journal.

Format:
134 p. : col. ill. ; 23 cm. (Print)

Arrangement and Presentation:
This book includes illustrated explanations of the most common terms used in general math classes. It is categorized by subjects including measurement, algebra, geometry, fractions and decimals, statistics and probability, and problem solving. This edition also discusses how students can use basic math tools to improve their understanding and includes conversion tables.

Diversity:
There are no distinctive cultural features because this book deals with math-related concepts.
15 reviews1 follower
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April 29, 2012
Fitzgerald, T. (2011). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math, terms, strategies, and tables: Grades 4-9. Waco, Tex: Prufrock Press.

Citation created by: Amanda Daugherty

Type of reference: Dictionary

Call number: 510.3

Description: This dictionary contains over 400 illustrated definitions, explanations, and examples for over math concepts students learn during middle school.

Content/Scope: Topics include measurement, algebra, geometry, fractions and decimals, statistics and probability, problem solving, measurements, and conversions.

Accuracy/Authority: This book was published in 2011, so the information is accurate.

Arrangement/Presentation: Content is arranged by topic. The book contains an index.

Relation to Similar Works:
Large, T. (2004). The Usborne illustrated dictionary of math. Tulsa, OK: EDC Pub.
This is another math dictionary that is arranged by topic.

Timeliness/Permanence: The book was just recently updated, so the information is timely. Since the math curriculum seems to change, it would be advisable to buy the newer versions when they come available.

Cost: $12.95

Rationale for Selection: This could be a great resource for teachers to help students understand math concepts that they may find difficult.

Professional Review:
Farnlacher, S. (2011). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math, terms, strategies, and tables. School Library Journal, 57(10), 87.
10 reviews1 follower
Want to read
June 27, 2013
Fitzgerald, T. (2011). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math terms, strategies and tables. Waco, TX: Prufrock Press, Inc.

Type of Resource: Dictionary.

Citation by: Robbie Travis

Content/Scope: Written for ages 9 and up, this dictionary includes more than 400 full-color, illustrated definitions. The most common terms used in math classes are categorized by subjects that include measurement, algebra, geometry, fractions and decimals, statistics and probability, and problem solving. All areas of math taught in elementary school are covered in this volume.

Accuracy/Authority: This text is recently published, so its information is up-to-date. Prufrock Press has been a publisher of materials for gifted and special needs students since the late 1980s. Theresa Fitzgerald has been a fourth grade teacher since 1992, during which time she worked on the development of this dictionary.

Arrangement/Presentation: The book is arranged by math topics. Within each topic, terms are arranged alphabetically. Definitions include illustrations, concise explanations, and examples.

Relation to Other Works: There are very few similar works. Most are more expensive and do not appear to be as well organized. Due to this fact, and the age this dictionary is geared toward, this would be an excellent choice for the elementary library media center.

Cost: $12.95.

Professional Review:
Farnlacher, S. (2011). Reference review. School Library Journal, 57 (10), 87.
15 reviews
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April 7, 2016
Fitzgerald, T. R. (2014). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math terms, strategies, and tables : grades 4-9.

Citation: Laura Faulkner
Type of Reference: Dictionary
Call Number: Ref 511

Content/Scope: This 272 page dictionary contains over 400 definitions of math terms on topics such as measurement, algebra, fractions, statistics and problem solving. It is intended to help students in grades 4 through 9 understand concepts and solve math problems with the help of examples and illustrations.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: The author, Theresa Fitzgerald, has both a bachelors and master’s degree in mathematics and has been teaching for 25 years.

Arrangement/Presentation: The dictionary is divided into 7 main chapters by topic. Additional chapters include reference material and manipulative information. Formulas, illustrations and color images with examples are included to increase understanding.

Accessibility/Diversity: The book focuses on math concepts and does not contain or address cultural or ethnic diversity. However, the concepts taught in the book can assist students on diverse academic levels in math.

Cost: $13.95

Professional Review: Darling, Meaghan. (2015). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math terms, strategies, and tables : grades 4-9. School Library Journal. Retrieved from http://www.slj.com/2015/06/reviews/re...
Profile Image for Skjam!.
1,638 reviews52 followers
June 12, 2016
Disclaimer: I received this book as a Firstreads giveaway, and it is reviewed on that basis.

Math was never my strongest suit in school, so when I saw this book on the giveaway list, I chose it to give me a refresher on the subject. And it did a very good job of that.

The language is clear and simple (save for the mathematics terms themselves), and there are plenty of illustrations. The terms are grouped by subject, roughly in the order most schools would teach them. In addition, there are helpful charts and diagrams, and a listing of useful formulae. However, it's not a substitute for regular math textbooks--if you're lost, it can be difficult to trace your way back to where the confusion lies.

This book would be an excellent resource for parents of elementary school kids in the US and Canada (the weights and measures chapter is kind of provincial) and for the kids themselves once their reading skills are good enough. The one thing I disapproved of was some product placement in the appendixes, recommending only specific brands of mathematics tools.

I'll be passing this along to my appropriately-aged nieces.

For more math-related reviews, see http://www.skjam.com/tag/mathematics/
14 reviews1 follower
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November 23, 2015
Fitzgerald, T. (2011). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math, terms, strategies, and tables. (4th ed.). Waco,TX: Prufrock Press.

Citation by: Teresa Kennedy

Type of Reference: Dictionary

Call Number: Ref 423

Content/Scope: The dictionary is broken into sections by different math content areas. For example measurement, algebra, geometry, fractions and decimals, statistics and probability, and problem solving are all sections in the dictionary. There is an index that allows student search for specific content vocabulary. The dictionary also includes multiple examples that students can use a learning tool or reference.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: Each term has an accurate definition and example.

Arrangement/Presentation: This book is arranged by math content area and has an index for easy look up.

Relation to other works: There are limited math dictionaries for elementary students and this dictionary includes accurate definitions and multiple examples.

Accessibility/Diversity: This book is easy accessible to older elementary students.

Cost: $12.95

Professional Review: Farnlacher, S. (2011). Math dictionary for kids: The essential guide to math, terms, strategies, and tables. School Library Journal, 57(10), 87.
Profile Image for Grecekia.
121 reviews
June 28, 2011
This book is great...I have two kids that usually have problems in math. When I first got the book I thought this will be good to have for younger kids, but my daughter started looking thru the book and discovered that it could help her with fractions and statistics. Both of which are problem areas for her. The book falls just in line with her seventh grade math class and I'm sure to get good use out of it in the coming months.

That being said, the higher grade level is a bit short, being that the book is said to be from 4 - 9 grade. My older kid just passed the 8th grade and he said a lot of the work is in the lower grade levels. Like more 4 - 6 grade math levels. Being that he struggled with the 8 grade math of graphing and shading I have to agree. Also some of the summaries are rather short and don't elaborate on the problems clearly.

Overall a good refresher book for parents and a great homework guide for kids in the lower level of their math class.
Profile Image for Joy.
150 reviews
October 27, 2011
This was a give away from Goodreads but as I have no kids I gave it to my sister. Here is her review.

The Math Dictionary for Kids says it is the #1 Math Homework helper for grades 4 – 9. This seems to be a very useful, well laid out dictionary of math terms and examples. Most terms are listed in categories but any term can be found in the index in the back. The examples are easy to understand and the steps are all laid out so you can see the progression of steps in completing the problems. It covers topics from algebra, geometry, statistics, fractions, measurement and problem solving. A very useful book for a student who needs explanation at home while attempting to complete homework and maybe even more useful for a parent trying to help their student but who has forgotten how to do the math they did back in school.
Profile Image for Josiah.
376 reviews24 followers
February 8, 2012
This concise math dictionary explains terms, demonstrates equations, and illustrates figures with simplicity and lots of color!

Covers topics: whole numbers and operations; measurement; algebraic ideas; geometry; decimals, fractions, percents, and ratios; statistics and probability; problem solving; quick reference guides; learning with manipulatives; formulas; tables and charts; measurement conversion tables; basic math tools and equipment.

Writing: A+
Plot: A+
Vocabulary: Easy
Worldview: Factual

Received for free through Goodreads First Reads program!
Profile Image for Amy.
287 reviews
August 5, 2011
I am so thankful to have won this one! With the new school year just around the corner, I am sure it will come in very handy! Thanks goodreads!
As I went through this wonderful enlightenment of math I realized every student should be given this book when starting out. I know my 5th grader will be using this book for years to come and will be better equipped to face the math challenges to come. I also plan on sharing this book with the math teacher in middle school. I know my 9th grader had some issues that could easily be resolved with this mountain of useful information.
24 reviews4 followers
June 20, 2011
This book is recommended for kids in grades 4-9, and I think that is accurate. This would be a great book for kids to have as an at-home reference. It is also an essential classroom resource. The dictionary is easy to use and spaced out nicely. Kids who are self-advocates in their learning or want to explore and review would benefit from having access to this book. All the important definitions and math concepts are included in the text and very comprehensive.
Profile Image for Kidsbookworm.
176 reviews4 followers
January 28, 2012
This book is Wonderful! I wish I'd had it when I was in school! My kids use it a couple of times a week - it's easy to use and just about everything that you'd need is in this book.

It's great for helping jog the memory; if you don't use a particular concept every week, it might be a bit rusty, or you might be a little unsure of yourself. This book has been great for helping my kids see that they do remember it!

This will be a keeper too!
702 reviews10 followers
October 6, 2014
This book is written by a fourth-grade teacher who earned a master's degree in math/science elementary education. I think this book should be in every home and in every classroom library. It would be helpful for parents who have forgotten math vocabulary and for all students who need a reference or some reviewing in order to complete homework.
Profile Image for Brooke.
11 reviews9 followers
October 22, 2011
We have found several things to use with our 2nd graders, and know that as we continue to home school this book will be a great supplement. (This book was won as part of Goodreads First Reads)
Profile Image for Teela.
91 reviews8 followers
August 4, 2011
Great book w/understandable math terms. should be helpful to to Math Teachers and students. The examples will be extremely useful.
237 reviews
Want to read
July 26, 2011
I have just won this book from First Reads. I look forward to reading it. Thanks.
Profile Image for Kristina Franken.
493 reviews14 followers
September 4, 2012
I highly recommend this book for anyone

FTC: I received a free copy of this book and was not reimbursed in any other way.
Profile Image for Colette Wills.
156 reviews
December 25, 2015
A great guide for parents and teachers. Full of charts, graphs, and explanations that dumb it down for anyone to be able to understand.
Profile Image for Colette Wills.
156 reviews
July 18, 2014
Full of definitions of math terms, example problems, charts and graphs. I found this book to a huge help whether you are a parent or a teacher.
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