Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Precalculus

Review by Cathy Duffy

"This series targets students sixth grade and above, but it uses a mastery learning approach that might work especially well for students who have struggled with math or who have learning gaps. ... You begin with the placement test in the Parent’s Guide. Student’s can then begin studying chapters that teach concepts they have not yet mastered rather than completing every lesson. ... The placement test answer key indicates which chapters cover which problems. At the beginning of each chapter is a list of “Chapter Objectives” that might also be used as a pre test to help identify which units within a chapter a student should complete if you suspect your student already knows much of the material. ... Lessons are presented quite differently than in traditional texts. There is no introductory lesson with sample problems. Instead, each lesson begins with only a brief highlighting of key terms for the lesson. The lesson itself is presented in two columns. A wide column (about 2/3 of the page) on the left presents information in the form of statements and questions broken down into small nuggets, each one numbered."

"This type of instruction continually elicits responses to keep students tuned in and thinking about what they are learning. Occasionally, students will need to use paper and pencil to work out steps in a problem before arriving at a correct answer. ... Sometimes, the format changes to accommodate different types of problems/skills. ... The publisher provides free assistance via email or fax if a student gets stuck. ... What makes these courses particularly appropriate for homeschoolers is their design for independent study. Parents need only administer chapter, cumulative, and final tests. Courses do not require parental teaching, and assistance is available from the publisher if needed. ... The publisher says that students should plan to spend about one hour per unit in the lower level course, although I suspect that some students will breeze through some units much more quickly than that."

To read Cathy Duffy's entire comprehensive review, visit cathyduffyreviews.com.

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