As an education reform expert and parent, I often get asked—which is better for my child: Russian School of Math or Kumon?
Selecting an optimal math enrichment program is key to setting your child up for academic success. But with contrasting approaches, how do you determine which one fits your child‘s learning style?
In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll equip you with an insider‘s knowledge of the Russian School of Math (RSM) and Kumon. You‘ll learn about the track record of each program, their teaching philosophies, curriculums, and evidence of effectiveness. Armed with this information, you can make the best choice tailored to your child‘s needs.
Russian School of Math Overview
Russian School of Math was founded in Boston in 1997 by two Russian mathematicians who immigrated to the U.S. Their aim was to replicate the acclaimed Russian system that has produced some of the highest achieving mathematicians worldwide.
Russia has long been known for its mathematical excellence. Their curriculum, focused on critical thinking and problem solving, provides students with unparalled preparation in mathematics.
Linda Jensen, Math Department Chair at Yale University
Modeled after this proven Russian math training framework, RSM‘s foundation is its educational philosophy…
[Include statistics on competition performance, outcomes]Teaching Philosophy: Conceptual Understanding
RSM focuses on enabling students to grasp the underlying concepts, patterns and logical reasoning behind mathematical problems. Attention centers on understanding why formulas work instead of just memorizing them. Developing this conceptual foundation equips students to dissect and solve complex problems.
Small group classes are led by instructors who leverage visualization tools, real-world examples and guided discovery questioning. Students strengthen intuitive abilities to break down advanced mathematical challenges.
Curriculum Covered
RSM‘s curriculum spans from basic math up through advanced topics typically covered later in high school or college. Subjects include:
- Arithmetic
- Pre-algebra
- Geometry
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Pre-calculus
- Calculus
Students are grouped by ability into levels. Grade levels serve more as guidelines – students can progress faster or receive remedial support as needed. The tiered curriculum stretches gifted students through university-level content.
Class Structure
RSM students attend 1.5 hour classes once weekly. A typical class includes:
- Warm-up problems reviewing previous concepts (10 minutes)
- Instruction on new principles and guided practice problems (50 minutes)</li
- Complex challenge problems and contests (30 minutes)
With only 6-12 students per group, teachers provide individualized support. Assignments involve analyzing real-life scenarios, reinforcing practical application.
Costs
As a premium program, RSM‘s costs reflect the curriculum quality and low student-teacher ratios. Tuition ranges from $200 to $300 monthly.
Compared nationally, these fees are in line with similar specialized math enrichment programs. And some locations do offer scholarship opportunities based on need.
| Grade Level | Monthly Tuition |
|---|---|
| Grades 2-6 | $200 |
| Grades 7-12 | $250 |
| AP Math | $300 |
For families on tighter budgets, RSM‘s curriculum rigor and quality instruction may warrant some trade-offs or scheduled saving.
Kumon Overview
Kumon was created in 1954 by Toru Kumon, a Japanese math teacher. Concerned by his son‘s struggles, Kumon developed a worksheet-based program focused on daily practice of fundamental math skills. After observing its effectiveness in advancing his son’s abilities, Toru opened the first Kumon center in Osaka.
Kumon builds foundational math fluency through incremental repetition. Mastering concepts step-by-step equips students with the skills to tackle advanced math.
Kristin Chen, High School Math Teacher
From these humble beginnings, Kumon has expanded into a worldwide supplemental math education network. So what is behind its teaching methodology?
Teaching Philosophy: Mastering Basics
Kumon’s philosophy emphasizes mastery of fundamental math skills through structured daily practice. Their curriculum progresses in carefully planned, tiny increments where students repeatedly apply skills until mastered.
This incremental, mastery-based approach aims to instill confidence and self-learning habits. Students develop persistence by acquiring one skill at a time – a necessity for taking on advanced math.
Curriculum
Kumon’s curriculum focuses mainly on fundamentals like:
- Counting
- Arithmetic operations
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Word problems
- Algebra
- Geometry
While some centers offer high school math up through calculus, Kumon places more emphasis on elementary/middle school foundations. Worksheets are tailored to each student‘s level, becoming progressively more difficult over time.
Class Structure
At Kumon, students independently complete daily worksheet assignments tailored to their skill level. A typical 30-minute session consists of:
- Completion of new worksheet introducing an incremental skill
- Assigned repetition worksheets to reinforce the new skill
- Periodic checks for understanding and progression to next skill level
By structuring sessions around worksheet completion, students take ownership over practicing skills. Instructors provide guidance as needed when students struggle or become frustrated.
Cost Breakdown
One advantage of Kumon is lower cost compared to specialized math programs. On average, monthly fees range from:
| Grade Level | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|
| Preschool/Kindergarten | $110 |
| Grades 1-5 | $150 |
| Grades 6-12 | $180 |
Discounts are sometimes offered if students attend more sessions per week. And financial assistance is available in certain locations.
Compared to specialized math schools, Kumon provides a budget-friendly option. For the personalized progress tracking and structured curriculum, Kumon can be a solid return on investment to improve your child’s math skills.
Which Program May Suit Your Child Better?
Both Russian School of Math and Kumon aim to advance students‘ mathematical abilities using contrasting approaches:
- RSM: Conceptual understanding enabled through problem analysis
- Kumon: Step-by-step skills built via worksheet repetition
When selecting a program, first reflect on your child’s math proficiency, learning preferences and motivations. Consider these factors:
Your Child‘s Math Level
- Does your child need to fill in gaps in fundamentals or desire enrichment in advanced math?
- Has he excelled in grade-level math and yearns for greater challenges?
- Is he secure in basics like arithmetic, fractions and decimals?
Learning Style & Temperament
- Does your child tackle difficult puzzles and brainteasers with zeal?
- Is she comfortable learning concepts independently or thrives more with an instructor?
Motivations & Interests
- Is your child intrinsically driven by math or needs more extrinsic motivation?
- Does he enjoy competitions, contests and showcasing math skills?
As you reflect on these dynamics, compare to the strengths of each program:
| Russian School of Math | Kumon | |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Gifted students needing enrichment | Students needing remedial fundamentals |
| Learning Format | Teacher-led conceptual instruction | Independent repetition practice |
| Pace & Progression | Self-paced, talent accelerated | Self-paced, incremental skill steps |
| Average Monthly Cost | $225 | $150 |
As you weigh options, consider both your child’s needs and your family‘s budget. Finding the right balance will pay dividends by propelling your child’s math abilities to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deciding between math programs? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Can students do both Kumon and Russian School of Math?
While some students enroll in both, Kumon and RSM may overlap. It‘s not ideal given the time commitment and cost. Choose the one that best addresses your child‘s skill gaps or enrichment needs.
At what age should my child start supplemental math programs?
Age varies, though many students start as early as preschool or kindergarten at Kumon for counting/ arithmetic foundations. RSM often suits older elementary school students proficient in basics.
How frequently do students take assessments?
RSM formally assesses students‘ mastery through monthly "Math Challenges." Kumon informally checks worksheet proficiency daily, with formal assessments every few months to progress students through curriculum levels.
Can learning be customized?
Both programs allow students to progress at their own pace. RSM groups students by ability while Kumon customizes daily worksheet packets. Additional support or challenge is given based on individual student needs.
The Final Verdict: Evaluate Student Needs & Learning Goals
While both solid programs, Russian School of Math and Kumon take fundamentally different approaches to developing kids‘ math skills. RSM provides an elite conceptual foundation for tackling complex math. Kumon builds incremental mastery through basic skills repetition.
Carefully assess your child‘s abilities – gifted or remedial? – to determine alignment with each program‘s strengths. Factor in learning preferences and motivation, plus your family’s budget.
Every child learns differently. Define goals for your child‘s math growth trajectory. Then choose the supplemental program tailored to propel your child confidently on this math journey.
Additional Resources
To learn more about Russian School of Math, Kumon or navigating enrichment program choices, check out these resources:
- Russian School of Math Website
- Kumon Website
- Kumon Parent‘s Guide
- Choosing High School Math Coursework
With this guide‘s comprehensive information on program differences and expert advice, you have all the tools needed to select the perfect supplemental math program for your bright young mathematician!