Frequently Asked Questions
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General Questions
How is a student’s class placement determined?
Students are placed in classes based on their current level of mathematical skills and knowledge. Since each student develops at a different pace, our goal is to ensure that each student is learning in an environment that best matches their abilities and supports their growth. We consider their grade level, but rely on parent and teacher input to ensure appropriate placement.
A placement test is not mandatory, but can be requested via email at info@FirecrackerMath.org. However, the best placement recommendation comes from our instructors’ interaction with your student and our math curriculum.
My child is in Kindergarten, can they attend Firecracker Math?
Yes, we welcome kindergarteners if they meet all of the following prerequisites:
- They can count to 12 and backwards
- They understand the concepts of addition and subtraction
- They can compare numbers (equal, less, greater, no greater, etc.)
- They are able to write numbers
Classes
What curriculum does Firecracker Math use? What is the style of a typical class?
The material that we use to teach our classes is unique to our program. All instructors who teach an after school enrichment course use our curriculum.
Each lesson covers a specific topic, which is presented as a challenge, class discussion, sometimes a game or a magic trick. Then the class works on problems, questions, or a small exploration project related to the topic. Problems and questions in each set become progressively more difficult. There are always extra challenges that the instructor has to give to the most advanced students if they finish everything in class.
Each instructor brings their own teaching style to the classroom and incorporates games, activities, and creative approaches whenever they feel it will enhance the learning experience. This flexibility allows lessons to remain engaging, dynamic, and responsive to the needs of the students.
Is there homework for Firecracker Math classes?
Each week the students will receive a handout with the week’s topic and problem sets or activities. Please encourage your students to bring these handouts home with them. There is no mandatory homework, but there are often extra problems/questions on the handouts that your student can work on if they want.
What if my student misses a week?
It’s ok to miss a week, as each week’s lesson is independent from the previous lessons. For the same reason, you can register as a drop-in, selecting only the dates that work for you. Since each student has different background knowledge, students will find some lessons more challenging and some easier.
What kinds of topics do Firecracker Math classes include?
Classes cover selected topics from number theory, algebra, geometry, combinatorics, graph theory, logic, the basics of computer science. Instructors employ hands-on activities, math games, math-based magic tricks, curious paradoxes, and contests to spark kids’ interest and boost their skills and confidence in math.
Below are examples of the topics covered in each level of Firecracker Math classes.
Early Elementary and Elementary Topics
- Placing and counting objects. Brainteasers.
- Pattern recognition. Patterns with numbers and shapes.
- Place value. Decimal system.
- Number Bases: Base 2. The game of Nim.
- Whole numbers. Parity. Domino games.
- The Pigeonhole Principle. Problem solving.
- Mathematical games. Game Strategy.
- Combinatorics. Combinations, permutations, compositions. Word problems.
- Geometric Shapes. Pentominoes. Pattern trains.
- Dissection shapes. Basic understanding of the area.
- Lines and Graphs. Problem solving.
- Backwards reasoning. Various approaches to problem solving.
- How fast numbers grow. Linear and exponential growth.
- Logic and logical reasoning.
Intermediate and Upper Division Topics
- Whole numbers. Parity.
- Prime and composite numbers. Prime factorization.
- Divisibility and remainders. Divisibility tests. Problem solving strategies.
- Number bases. Decimal and binary numbers.
- The Tower of Hanoi. Mathematical induction and proof by induction. Problems and paradoxes.
- Pigeonhole Principle. Proof by contradiction.
- Combinatorics. Permutations and combinations. Fibonacci sequence and Pascal’s triangle.
- The mathematics of chance: Probability. Problem solving.
- Graphs and basics of graph theory. Bridges of Konigsberg. Problem solving.
- Mathematical logic. Problem solving.
- Triangles. Uniqueness, Special triangles and Pythagorean theorem.
- Pi: The Most Fascinating Number in Mathematics. Circumference and area of a circle.
- Mathematical games: No-strategy games. Figuring out game strategies.
- “Sitting and standing” game. Binary System and the Origins of Computer Science.
- Sigma Function
- Linear Functions (modulo n), Inverses and Primes.
I’m still not sure if Firecracker Math will be a good fit, can my student try a class?
One way to test out our classes is to register for a drop in class or even a couple weeks of drop in classes. This allows for the student to see if our classes are a good fit. After attending a drop in or two, reach back out to info@firecrackermath.org to register for the remainder of the session, a code can be issued to prorate the remaining classes.
Camps
Is Firecracker Math Camp good for students who are behind in math?
Our program focuses primarily on problem solving, exploration, and developing a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Through this process, students also have opportunities to practice and strengthen the skills they are learning at school.
We do not provide practice exercises or worksheets focused on a specific skill set. For example, if your child needs targeted practice with multiplication or operations with fractions, you may want to consider private lessons or a custom small group, and we will be happy to connect you with one of our instructors.
How is a student’s class placement determined for Summer Camp?
One of the factors we consider when determining your campers’ initial placement is the grade that they will be entering in the Fall. For example, if your child is currently in third grade and will be moving on to fourth grade in the fall, they will most likely be placed in one of our fourth-grade groups.
However, we also place campers according to their level in math and their parents’ and teachers’ recommendations. A placement test is not mandatory but can be requested by parents. Please let us know if your student is an advanced math student and may benefit from being placed with a more advanced group. Likewise, if you feel your student struggles with math at school, let us know as well. At the end of the camp session, you can contact us for a review of your campers’ progress. For inquiries about math placement, please email us at info@firecrackermath.org.
If I register for multiple weeks, will there be repeated material?
Our math lessons and topics are covered over three weeks at each site. The fourth week at a site may have repeat information. Please check with us if you are interested in registering your child for a fourth week.