In the primary grades, first through third, math is often worked in with other subjects. For example, while studying dinosaurs, children may measure out its actual length on the schoolroom floor. Or, they might figure out how many packages of cups to buy, for a class party. Young children must be able to physically handle the objects they're counting. Math is frequently applied to real life situations in the classroom. As children gain an understanding of basic concepts, they progress to worksheets involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. During grades four through six, they also learn about fractions and decimals. In the early years, science is usually approached through demonstrations. Projects may include observing and recording information on experiments, or creating graphs. Animals that visit or live in the classroom are a great opportunity for first-hand science instruction. By third grade, more abstract ideas are introduced, such as the solar system. In addition to astronomy, students may delve into geology, geography, the weather, and natural science. They're often given science projects, to be completed at home, or as a group in class. Preferably, field trips, science equipment, and other hands-on experience will be used to supplement textbooks
