Getting Started
FAQ
"How do you decide which level my child is ready for?"
The IMACS demonstration classes are taught by senior instructors with extensive experience in assessing each child's intuitive mathematical ability on the basis of the child's responses to the novel situations presented during the class.
"My child already does very well in math. What additional benefits can IMACS provide?"
Elementary school mathematics curricula focus on arithmetic, and bright students typically do well at this with little or no effort. This frequently leads to poor study habits. The IMACS program is designed specifically to develop logical and critical thinking and problem-solving in talented students.
"Will this affect my child's schoolwork?"
Yes! And not just in mathematics. By demonstrating to a bright child that using his or her intellect is fun, and by providing a variety of problem-solving techniques and reasoning skills, IMACS has a marked positive impact on a child's school performance.
"Is it better for my child to start the program at the beginning of the year?"
Due to the spiral approach used to teach the IMACS curriculum, many bright students are able to join existing IMACS classes. However, if your child does not start the program at the beginning of the year, you may need to make a special appointment prior to the child's first class so that an instructor can cover essential information on a one-to-one basis.
"How qualified are IMACS instructors?"
All IMACS instructors have a strong academic background in computer science and/or mathematics and have excelled in the extensive IMACS Instructor Training and Evaluation program. Senior IMACS instructors typically have a Masters or Ph.D. in either computer science or mathematics.
"Will I receive a progress report from IMACS about my child?"
IMACS does not issue written progress reports. Since class sizes are small, parents may expect to get a detailed assessment of a child's abilities and progress from the child's IMACS instructor. Instructors are available to meet with parents before or after each class. Any problems with a child's progress or behavior are relayed to parents immediately by Parent Relations.
"How can just one or two weeks of summer camp benefit my child?"
The intensive daily exposure to novel ideas and talented instructors has had a seminal effect on many young IMACS students over many years. And older students in the self-paced mathematics and computer science classes can make significant academic progress during two-hours-per-day of intensive effort.
"Is there homework, and should I offer to help?"
IMACS provides homework specifically designed to enhance concepts taught in class. Parents are encouraged to review their children's efforts, to help them as necessary, and to use the opportunity to discuss math with their children. (Please refer to the IMACS Parent's Survival Guide for more information on helping your child with his or her homework.) Homework help is available to students before and after class.
"Can my first or second grader also take a computer enrichment or electronics class?"
Due to the nature of the curriculum and the extended periods of concentration necessary for these programs, it has been our experience that younger students should wait until they are older to begin these classes. However, exceptions do occur, and a free trial class can be arranged to determine the readiness of any child.