Math-U-See Algebra 1

Algebra 1

Math-U-See Algebra 1 teaches all basic algebra concepts. These include basic properties, solving equations (including simultaneous equations), coin problems, exponents and square roots, scientific notation, unit multipliers, and metric conversions. Graphing lines are taught in detail, and graphing conic sections are introduced. Operations with polynomials are demonstrated with place-value blocks for conceptual understanding before being taught conventionally. Math-U-See Algebra 1 is typically a good fit for a student entering eighth grade; to find the Math-U-See level that best fits your child you can try the placement test here.

About Math-U-See Curriculum

For more than 20 years, Math-U-See's renowned mastery-based, multi-sensory, student-paced program has been the answer for countless families. Math-U-See is a comprehensive K-12 math curriculum that uses manipulatives to illustrate and teach the concepts. If you regularly experience tears from your child whenever new mathematical topics are introduced, you need Math-U-See's systematic, precept-upon-precept math program.  This manipulative-based curriculum ensures your children will be able to fully understand each mathematical concept before moving on to another one. 

Math-U-See is mastery-oriented, clear, to the point, and compelling with simple, uncluttered pages. In Math-U-See, new ideas are introduced step by step logically. At the same time, concepts that have been mastered are reviewed periodically. The lessons are short, and there are many opportunities for multi-sensory experiences using videos and manipulatives.

Math-U-See books are organized into levels, not grades, so students can proceed at their own pace as they master concepts. This is particularly helpful for the child that is not performing at grade level but would rather not have that be a daily reminder. 

Student workbooks are softcover, and the pages are perforated and punched so they can be removed, completed, and placed in binders if you choose. Occasional fun exercises, like dot-to-dots and crossword puzzles, have been incorporated into the student workbooks. Student workbook pages are consumable, so each child will need their own copy. 

The Math-U-See Manipulatives are more than a supplement. They are an integral part of the curriculum. Used from the Primer through Algebra 1 levels, the manipulatives build each concept from place value through polynomials through Integer Blocks, Fraction Overlays, and Algebra/Decimal Inserts.

Instruction manuals include complete answer keys with solutions for all problems. This is more a necessity at the upper levels than the lower ones. Math-U-See does require a fair amount of parental involvement, especially in the younger grades. They have bent over backwards to make the lesson planning as painless as possible. But to get the most out of Math-U-See, parents should be prepared to plan and not start the lessons unprepared. Math-U-See's teacher guide and supplemental DVD will teach you, the parent, more than just how to solve a math problem. They also show why the problem is solved in this manner and when to apply the concept. 

Each lesson is demonstrated on the videos with such kind-hearted enthusiasm. I now understand why children line up at homeschool conferences to give the instructor, Steve Demme, a hug. The Digital Pack includes streaming access to the same lesson videos as the DVDs, as well as PDF versions of the instruction materials and other online resources.

Math-U-See is laid out with step-by-step procedures for introducing, practicing, mastering, and reviewing concepts. How do you know when your child has 'mastered' a math concept? Not just when he gets the answers right but when he can teach the concept back to you, especially if he can do so with a word problem. Math-U-See will show you how. So, if you want to give your child a rock-solid mathematical foundation, if your child is shaky on the basics, or just looking for a no-frills, common-sense program, you will be pleased with Math-U-See.

Notes: 

The Math-U-See levels are used in the following order: Primer, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Epsilon, Zeta, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, PreCalculus, and Calculus. Placement tests for the different levels are available here.

Math-U-See Manipulatives come in a standard cardboard box with a lightweight plastic tray. These do not hold up well, either in shipment or daily life, so we'd suggest considering a different long-term storage option, such as a bin or bag. Our warehouse crew always does their best, but unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that the packaging will arrive in good condition.