Category: Middle School Math

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, Curriculum, Curriculum Resource, Digital Learning Platform, Education, High School, Homeschool, homeschool curriculum, Math, Middle School, Middle School Math, Online classes, Online Learning, Online Math, Pre-Algebra, S.T.E.A.M, self-paced

Mr. D Math Self-Paced Pre-Algebra Course: Empowering Middle Schoolers with Flexible Learning

Little Learner and Mom

We received Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra for our honest review!

As a homeschooling parent navigating the realm of mathematics education for my middle schooler, I understand the importance of finding a curriculum that not only teaches concepts effectively but also provides support and flexibility. In my quest for the perfect math curriculum Mr. D Math has been #1. We have used Mr. D Math’s course Self-Paced Preparing for Pre-Algebra and Music Production courses. Now we are enjoying Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra course, and it has exceeded my expectations in numerous way.

The Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra is structured into 12 comprehensive chapters, each containing up to 9 engaging lessons. The chapters cover a wide range of foundational mathematical topics essential for building a strong understanding of pre-algebra concepts. The chapter topics include:

  1. Introduction to Pre-Algebra
  2. Operations with Integers
  3. Operations with Rational Numbers
  4. Equations and Inequalities
  5. Proportions and Percents
  6. Powers and Roots
  7. Geometry: Angle Relationships and Transformations
  8. Geometry: Triangles and Polygons
  9. Geometry: Circles and Solid Figures
  10. Measurement and Data
  11. Probability and Statistics
  12. Review and Preparation for Algebra

Additionally, the course includes two semester exams, strategically placed to assess students’ understanding and progress throughout the academic year. These exams serve as important milestones, allowing students to review and consolidate their learning while preparing for future mathematical challenges. With its structured approach and comprehensive content, the Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra course provides a solid foundation for students transitioning into higher levels of mathematics. Students are recommended to work three to four sections a week.

Teaching Strategy

Mr. D Math’s Pre-Algebra course employs innovative teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles. Through engaging video lessons, interactive exercises, and real-life applications, students are encouraged to develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. This approach not only ensures comprehension but also fosters a genuine appreciation for the subject.

Weekly Live Tutoring

A standout feature of Mr. D Math’s Pre-Algebra course is the option for weekly live tutoring sessions. These sessions provide invaluable support and guidance for students, allowing them to interact with knowledgeable instructors in real-time. Whether students require clarification on a challenging topic or seek additional practice, the live tutoring sessions offer personalized assistance, boosting confidence and academic success.

Live Classes Option

For families who prefer a more structured learning environment, Mr. D Math offers live classes in addition to the self-paced option. This flexibility allows students to participate in scheduled classes and engage in live instruction with their peers. Whether homeschooling or seeking supplementary education, the live classes provide a dynamic learning experience tailored to individual needs.

Printable Written Exercises

As a homeschooling parent, I appreciate the option to print out written exercises and organize them in a binder. This tangible aspect not only reinforces learning but also allows students to track their progress and revisit concepts as needed. With physical copies of the exercises readily available, students can engage in hands-on learning, enhancing retention and understanding.

Self-Grading Quizzes and Tests

Mr. D Math’s Pre-Algebra course includes self-grading quizzes and tests, streamlining the assessment process for students and parents alike. These assessments provide immediate feedback, enabling students to identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement. With the self-grading feature, students can take ownership of their learning journey and track their academic progress with ease.

How We Used

We integrated Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra course seamlessly alongside our spine curriculum, utilizing it three days a week with occasional supplementary sessions on Saturdays. Aligning the sections of the Pre-Algebra course with our spine curriculum ensured a cohesive learning experience for my son. Not only did Mr. D Math reinforce concepts covered in our spine curriculum, but it also deepened his understanding and introduced strategies that enriched his mathematical skills.

Moreover, the course occasionally previewed upcoming concepts, providing my son with a valuable head start and fostering confidence as he approached new topics in our spine curriculum. This integrated approach not only enhanced my son’s grasp of mathematical concepts but also instilled in him a deeper appreciation for the subject matter. At the time of this review we are on chapter two section 2.3 -Operations with Integers the plan is to continue working Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra course until the mid semester review (end of chapter 6) and picking things back up in the fall.

Additional Course Offerings

In addition to the Pre-Algebra course, Mr. D Math offers a diverse range of classes covering various grade levels and subjects. From Algebra and Geometry to SAT and ACT Math Prep, there are numerous options available to complement and enrich your child’s educational journey. Whether as a standalone curriculum or a supplement, Mr. D Math provides comprehensive resources for math education. If you have an opportunity I also highly recommend checking out Teach: Creating Independently Responsible Learners by Dennis DiNoia it is recurring read over the summer for me when I am planning our upcoming year.

Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra course provides a comprehensive and adaptable learning experience for middle schoolers. With its innovative teaching strategies, live tutoring support, diverse course offerings, printable exercises, and self-grading assessments, this course equips students with the skills and confidence needed to excel in mathematics and beyond.

I highly encourage parents of middle schoolers to explore Mr. D Math’s Self-Paced Pre-Algebra course, especially if they’re seeking a different approach to learning or feel the need to outsource math education. Whether as a standalone curriculum or a supplement, Mr. D Math offers the flexibility, support, and quality instruction necessary for academic success. Additionally, the self-paced nature of the course makes it an excellent choice for students who may need a little extra support, even if they attend traditional schools.

7th Grade, 8th Grade, algebra, Curriculum, Curriculum Resource, High School, Homeschool, Math, Middle School, Middle School Math

Unlocking Algebraic Understanding with Math-U-See Algebra 1: A Timberdoodle Review!

Little Learner and Mom

We received for Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set for our honest review. This review may contain affiliate links at no additional charge to you.

As a homeschooling parent, navigating the transition to higher-level mathematics can be a daunting task. Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set is on our curriculum list for the upcoming school year. Math-U-See has been a cornerstone in our homeschooling journey since kindergarten, providing a solid foundation in general math principles. Now that we are entering the algebraic stage of our homeschool we were excited to check out the new Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set .

Math U See Approach

Math-U-See’s General Math Curriculum offers a structured and systematic approach to learning math concepts. The curriculum breaks down complex mathematical ideas into manageable chunks, allowing my child to build upon previous knowledge gradually. This sequential progression has been instrumental in fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

One of the standout features of Math-U-See is its emphasis on concrete to abstract learning. The curriculum utilizes manipulatives such as base-ten blocks and fraction overlays to provide hands-on experiences that solidify mathematical concepts before transitioning to abstract representations.

This multi-sensory approach has been incredibly effective in bridging the gap between concrete understanding and abstract reasoning. Math-U-See prioritizes conceptual understanding over rote memorization, which aligns perfectly with our homeschooling philosophy. Rather than simply memorizing formulas and procedures, my child is encouraged to comprehend the “why” behind mathematical concepts. This deeper understanding not only enhances problem-solving skills but also instills a genuine appreciation for the beauty of mathematics.

Transitioning to Secondary Math

It is very important to point out that Math-U-See provides a readiness check that serves as a valuable tool for assessing your child’s readiness for algebraic concepts. By identifying areas of strength and areas that may require additional review, the readiness check helps tailor our approach to bridge any gaps effectively. This targeted assessment ensures that your child enters the realm of algebra with confidence and preparedness.

Welcome to Secondary Math

Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set includes student work-text, test book, and digital pack access for the instructional videos, instructors guide and solutions. Math-U-See’s Algebra 1 program is a mastery-based approach. Rather than rushing through concepts, the program allows the child to solidify their understanding before moving on. The use of manipulatives, such as the Integer Block Kit, has been instrumental in making abstract algebraic concepts tangible and accessible. You can purchase the digital version of the manupulatives or the physical. In our case we have all the manupulatives because we have been long time users of the companies curriculum.

The sequential and systematic structure of the curriculum is a notable strength. Each lesson builds upon the previous one, creating a logical progression that aids in the understanding of complex algebraic topics. The clear explanations provided by the instructional videos, coupled with the hands-on approach, will significantly enhanced my child’s comprehension of algebra.

The incorporation of real-world applications is another commendable aspect. Math-U-See doesn’t just teach abstract mathematical concepts but emphasizes their practical use. This approach not only will engage my child’s interest but also demonstrates the relevance of algebra in everyday life.

The flexibility of the program allows for personalized learning. We can move at our own pace, spending more time on challenging topics or accelerating through familiar ones. The comprehensive instructor’s manual and answer key provide valuable support, making it easier for me as a parent to guide my child through the curriculum.

Assessment tools, such as the systematic review process and cumulative tests, ensure that my child retains and applies the learned material. The emphasis on mastery before progressing to the next level instills confidence and a deep understanding of algebraic principles.

From a parent’s perspective, Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set is user-friendly and minimizes the anxiety often associated with teaching higher-level math. The well-organized materials, instructional videos, and additional resources make the program accessible, even for parents who may not have a strong background in mathematics.

Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics I foresee to be an invaluable resource in our secondary math homeschooling journey. Its mastery-based approach, hands-on learning, real-world applications, and flexibility make it an excellent choice for families looking to build a solid foundation in algebra. I highly recommend Math-U-See to homeschooling parents seeking an effective and user-friendly algebra curriculum. Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set is now included in the Timberdoodle eight grade religious and nonreligious kit.

6th Grade, 7th Grade, Curriculum, Curriculum Resource, Family, Grammar, Homeschool, Language Arts, Literature Base, Middle School, Middle School Math

Nurturing Independent Thinkers: Oak Meadow 7th Grade Curriculum Review!

Little Learner and Mom

As a homeschooling parent navigating the educational landscape, finding a curriculum that fosters both academic growth and independent thinking is paramount. Oak Meadow’s 7th Grade Curriculum has been a cornerstone in our homeschooling journey, providing a holistic and engaging approach to education for our child. If some of you may remember we used Oak Meadow’s 5th and 6th grade last year. We did a hybrid homeschool year and we are doing the same thing this year. The bulk of his spine is Oak Meadow’s 7th grade and he is wrapping up the last of the Oak Meadow’s 6th grade math and will move into the 7th grade math book in March. With that little disclaimer lets jump into Oak Meadow’s 7th Grade Curriculum wonderfulness.

Overview

Oak Meadow’s 7th Grade Curriculum encompasses a diverse range of subjects, from core academics to creative arts. This holistic approach aligns seamlessly with the developmental needs of a 7th-grade student, offering a well-rounded education that goes beyond traditional textbooks. One of the standout strengths of Oak Meadow is its emphasis on fostering independent thinking and a love for learning. The curriculum encourages students to explore topics independently, promoting critical thinking and a sense of curiosity. The integration of hands-on activities and projects not only reinforces academic concepts but also makes learning enjoyable.

Navigating through the curriculum is straightforward, thanks to Oak Meadow’s clear and well-organized structure. The weekly lesson plans, detailed guides, and the flexibility to adapt the pace to our child’s learning style have made it easy to seamlessly integrate lessons into our homeschooling routine. This adaptability has been a boon for tailoring the curriculum to our child’s unique needs.

Real World Connections

Oak Meadow excels in connecting academic content to real-world scenarios. The curriculum often integrates practical applications, allowing our child to see the relevance of what they are learning. This approach not only enhances comprehension but also cultivates a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Homeschooling parents will appreciate the robust teacher support provided by Oak Meadow. The curriculum includes comprehensive teacher manuals, answer keys, and additional resources that simplify the planning process. This support has been invaluable, especially for parents who may not have a background in education.

Oak Meadow’s approach to student engagement goes beyond traditional methods. The inclusion of interactive projects, outdoor activities, and a variety of learning resources keeps our child excited about learning. The curriculum promotes a love for exploration and creativity, making each lesson an enriching experience.

Oak Meadow’s 7th Grade Curriculum has proven to be a valuable asset in our homeschooling journey. Its focus on independent thinking, clear structure, real-world connections, and ample teacher support make it a well-rounded choice for parents seeking a holistic and engaging education for their 7th-grade students. Oak Meadow has not only facilitated academic growth but has also nurtured a love for learning that extends beyond the homeschooling environment.

While Oak Meadow has been a positive experience overall, it’s important to note that the level of parental involvement may vary depending on the child’s learning style. Some children may require more guidance, especially with the independent nature of certain assignments.

In conclusion, we love Oak Meadow as a company and as our homeschool curriculum. We are here for the long haul and my son couldn’t be happier he looks forward to that brown box every year. 

Until The Next,

Mom and J

Critical Thinking and Logic, Curriculum, Curriculum Resource, Education, Flex-paced, Homeschool, Math, Middle School Math, Reviews, self-paced

A Game-Changer for Algebra: Hands-On Equations Review!

Little Learner and Mom

We received Hands-On Equations for our honest review. This review may contain affiliate links at no additional charge to you.

I am always on the lookout for educational tools that make complex subjects more accessible and engaging for my child. Hands-On Equations has been a game-changer in our homeschooling journey, especially when it comes to introducing algebraic concepts. We we have been working Pre-Algebra concepts for awhile now and he for the most part he has a strong understanding of the concepts. Now that we are moving into more complex algebraic concepts I wanted to have something in my arsenal just in case we ran into any issues.

My son has always been a tactile and visual learner, the hands-on and interactive nature of this program immediately caught my attention. The use of game pieces and physical manipulative’s transformed abstract algebra into a tangible, visual experience for my child. Watching him move pawns and cubes around to represent variables and constants brought a new level of understanding to equations. The program is recommended for grades 3 and up and you receive every thing you need for instruction.

One of the standout features for us is the program’s ability to foster independent learning. The materials provided are well-organized, and the instructions are clear, allowing my child to work through the lessons on his own. This independence has not only boosted his confidence but also made my role as a facilitator more manageable.

The conceptual understanding that Hands-On Equations promotes is impressive. It goes beyond memorization of formulas, focusing on the underlying principles of algebra. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my child’s ability to solve equations and grasp fundamental algebraic concepts, setting a solid foundation for future learning.

The instructional materials accompanying the program are comprehensive and user-friendly. The lesson plans are easy to follow, and the worksheets provide ample practice. I appreciate the flexibility of the program, allowing me to adapt it to my child’s pace and learning style.

As a homeschooling parent, adaptability is crucial, and Hands-On Equations delivers in this aspect. It caters to different learning styles, making it suitable for a wide range of students. The program’s hands-on approach is particularly beneficial for visual and kinesthetic learners, adding variety to our homeschooling routine.

Hands-On Equations has exceeded my expectations and proven to be an invaluable resource in teaching algebra. The program’s hands-on, visual approach, coupled with its emphasis on conceptual understanding, has made learning algebra enjoyable and effective for my child. I highly recommend it to fellow homeschooling parents looking for a dynamic and engaging way to introduce algebraic concepts.

Curriculum, Education, Homeschool, Math, Middle School, Middle School Math, Online Math

Mr. D Math: Preparing for Pre-Algebra Review!

Little Learner and Mom

We received Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra for our honest review. This review may contain affiliate links at no additional charge to you.

We are entering middle school this year and one of my concerns is ensuring my son has a solid foundation in mathematical concepts. One of the resources we are using this year is Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra. Mr. D Math is an online self-paced full math curriculum. The company has an entire course catalog of other courses that include thirteen other topics and live classes.

Before you start your course the guided videos provide you with valuable information for being successful and grading. Also, included is the option to be able to print out your student’s resource pages or homework pages either in one PDF. You also have the option to print per chapter including the answer key. The instructor encourages the student to take notes and work alongside them as they are presenting the lesson. Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra has eight chapters that are divided into multiple lessons. Within those lessons, you will also find spiral reviews and quizzes. There are two-semester exams, the first between chapter four and the last at the end of chapter eight.

Lessons

Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra videos move at a steady pace that ensures that your student will not get lost along the way. Lessons are short but informative and provide the student with just enough instruction to complete the lesson. Each lesson gives your student an intro about what they’re going to learn it also reminds them about previous lesson skills. Once the lesson starts students will receive math vocabulary, lectures, and examples. During lesson instruction, I reminded my son that he needs to check his worksheets for notes. The instructor provides information in the video for the notes on worksheets. My student take his time and listen to the lecture and then he would continuously pause to make sure that he wasn’t missing the notes.

Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra quizzes are only five questions. Keep in mind at the time of this review we are on chapter three of our course. The has two attempts to score a passing grade. I know what you’re thinking only five questions how does that really show if a student really understands the lesson. Let me assure you those five questions have been carefully curated so they cover almost 100% of what was in the lesson. If your student needs the quiz attempt reset just send a quick email to customer service. The other wonderful thing about Mr. D Math’s online platform is the free tutoring session. If your student is struggling there are live tutoring sessions that meet 2 days a week.

His unique and effective approach allows students to understand math as a language, raising their test scores on SAT/ACT/FCAT and other standardized tests.

Mr. D Math

On average each lesson takes about 20-30 minutes. To be honest with you it really depends on your student because they work at their own pace. Some of the lessons are divided into multiple parts. If you’re doing Mr. D Math as your spine curriculum then I would recommend that you do one part each day. For us, we averaged doing two to three lessons a week. We are also still finishing our spine curriculum and Mr. D Math is our supplement. I have noticed my son is covering concepts in Mr. D Math that are in his spine curriculum. I can honestly say having Mr. D’s Math alongside our spine curriculum has really made a difference in my son’s math lessons.

Let’s talk about spiral reviews. The spiral reviews are just that reviews of previously learned concepts along with new ones. It helps demonstrate he can incorporate both old and new information and still be able to continue through the course without frustration and gaps.

There is no extra preparation using Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra all I do is print the complete chapter slide in his binder. Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra can be done independently and quizzes are self-grading and student input their grades for their worksheets.

The Breakdown

Here are the key points that are of value with Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra:

  • Teachers review math concepts via video
  • Identifies learning gaps
  • Sets a strong foundational understanding of math
  • Introduces note-taking in math
  • Mathematical Vocabulary
  • Self-Paced and independent learning driven
  • Student Dashboard
  • Video lessons and free live tutoring sessions
  • Quizzes, Spiral Reviews, Exams
  • Worksheets and solutions for every lesson
  • Transcripts and Self-grading
  • Inexpensive
  • Can be used as a stand-alone curriculum or supplemental

I highly recommend Mr. D Math Preparing for Pre-Algebra, we will be investing in the Pre-Algebra when my son has finished this course. The student dashboard provides lesson tracking, grade book, messages, and complete transcripts. The company also has contests and fun opportunities for the kids to interact in the Mr. D Community. I recently purchased his book called Teach: Creating Independently Responsible Learners. Be on the lookout for our upcoming review of the Digital Music Production course.

Until the next time,

Mom and J

5th Grade, Curriculum, Homeschool, Math, Middle School Math, Reviews, S.T.E.A.M

Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 Review!

Little Learner and Mom

I received Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 from Timberdoodle Co. in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Hey, homeschool moms, it’s that time of the year when we are slowing things down and just relaxing. Here is the question do we really shut down? We all know the homeschool mom’s brain never shuts off entirely. We are always thinking about the next homeschool year or just reevaluating the current year. Right before we started our school year we were sent Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 by our friends over at Timberdoodle Co. In all honesty, we were still working through our current math curriculum and I wanted to finish it out. We finished his math curriculum in October and we picked up Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 as our review and started our journey.

Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 is being used as a review until we jump back into our spine in February. We received Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 Homeschool bundle that includes:

  • Homes Instructor Guides 5A & 5B
  • Student and additional practice books Grade 5 A & B

We aren’t new to the latest release from the Singapore Math family, we completed Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 4B over the spring/summer as a math review. My son really liked the colorful pages and the flow of the curriculum. If you aren’t familiar with the newest release let me tell you how they differ from traditional books. The new books are published by a different publisher in the US and the curriculum features all new material that aligns with the U.S. common core standards. Through my research, the curriculum is on grade level and will help students who are struggling in math or those who need a quick review. Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 can be used for students on all grade levels, students using grade 5 will transition easily to the next book which is Dimensions Grade 6. teaches the concepts but takes them to a more in-depth understanding.

How it Works

Let’s talk layout each student book has 6 chapters, and within those chapters, there are 1-4 lessons that follow this progression:

  • Chapter Opener
  • Task ( includes recall activity)
  • Learn (Teaches how to solve the task)
  • Activity ( encourages further understanding of a concept through hands-on activities and problem-solving)
  • Learn Together (helps student gain confidence with concepts with parent support)
  • Practice on Your Own (students work independently )

You can find full sample pages, placement test, and scope and sequence on the Timberdoodle Co Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 page.

The recall activity in my opinion is very important for your student to complete before starting the new material. The recall will alert you if your student hasn’t mastered the previous chapters before moving on. I wouldn’t skip this section. The chapters also include a chapter practice which in my opinion is like a chapter test, as well as:

  • Performance Task ( apply chapter skills to real-world problems)
  • Steam Project Work
  • Solve! Heuristic ( helps children learn how to solve problems in multiple ways)

I do like that there is a substantial amount of word problems within each of the lessons. In the student book 5B, the entire chapter 8 is solving word problems. At the end of the chapter practice, students will have the opportunity to reflect on how they fill they did on the chapter. At first glance, you would think there isn’t a lot of practice for the student but I assure you there is a lot of practice and instruction.

The homeschool instructor guide is a new feature for Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 the homeschool instructor includes:

  • Chapters Pathway
  • Singapore Math approach
  • Informative breakdown of the student book
  • Digital Manipulative (you receive this code when you purchase a home instructor guide)
  • Detailed Instructor guide for teaching the lessons
  • Answer Key

The home instructor guide in my opinion is one the most detailed guides I have ever seen, it doesn’t miss anything. It really guides you through each chapter’s lesson so you feel confident about teaching your student. I love all the extra hands-on activities and extra resources they alert you to in the other books such s the additional practice, mastery and beyond, and teacher assessments. The only con I would have would I would like to have the actual lesson my son is working on in my home instructor guide because it is a little bothersome to have to share his book just to see what he is working on. I have the answer key and how to help solve the problems but I would like the actual page.

The chapters average 10-20 days, it all depends on your student I personally wouldn’t recommend trying to cram more into one day than instructed unless you are confident your student has mastery. We are at the end of chapter 2 in 5A this chapter was 20 days and I added 3 days to that because I had him do the additional practice pages for a few lessons. I really like having those additional practice pages because it really let me know that he knew what he was doing. I also noticed while he was working through Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 that he was more confident about his learning and I saw him apply some of the skills he was learning in his lessons when he was playing online math platforms.

My observation these last 2 months has given me a lot of insight into our upcoming term. What I have noticed he is eager to learn and use the textbook. I also recalled these observations during the summer of how much he enjoyed using grade 4 Primary 2022, which has this mom wondering if we need to continue to use this for the rest of the term. Even as I write this review I am thinking more about this decision because I want my son to be excited about what he is learning. I feel like Primary 2022 is helping him review and introducing him to a new way to do the math. I actually printed out the spine curriculum we were going to start in January and compared it to Primary 2022 Grade 5 and I am seeing some of the same concepts being introduced.

I like that the Singapore Math Primary 2022 Grade 5 helps me review what I already know while challenaging me to learn new concepts. I also like that it teaches new ways of doing math!

Jai-10

What I am looking for in a curriculum is not only teaching procedure but also the why and presenting several ways to solve. One great example of this is Chapter 2 The Four Operations with Whole Numbers. I was shocked to learn that he preferred using area models for long multiplication. He told this method made more sense to him than the traditional way of cross multiplication, and he also he better-understood complex order operation problems. Now can I just be completely honest my child has been doing long multiplication since the 3rd grade and it takes him a few minutes to do problems. This kid was running through the problems in record time, I went to start dinner he had 8 problems to do and I was sure he was going to be working on those for 15-20 mins. I looked over my shoulder and he was closing his book in victory!

Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 is a new math curriculum being offered by Timberdoodle Co. If you order from Timberdoodle Co you also receive 100 linking cubes, 250 transparent circles, and fraction circles. The bundle again also includes the home instructor books for both student consumable books 5A & 5B as well as the additional practice books. If you are looking for a more holistic way of learning math that is colorful, rigorous, and multifaceted I highly recommend it. You are getting that same Singapore Math method teaching but redeveloped for U. S aligned common core standards that are also friendly to the homeschooler.

I am still undecided but I think as we work through Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 for the month of January I think we will come to some sort of decision in regard with we are going to continue with Singapore Math Primary 2022 Grade 5 and finish it out or move back to our spine. I am almost sure my son’s vote is to stay with Singapore Primary Math 2022 Grade 5 .

Until the Next Time,

Mom and J

6th Grade, Education, Family, Homeschool, Middle School Math

Brilliant: Premium Subscription!

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

Ok so I am in the 40+ club and I try to keep my brain sharp by working on logic games and puzzles. So when presented with the opportunity to review Brilliant Premium Subscription I thought this would be perfect for me. Well, I was wrong…my husband who was laying beside me became curious about what I was doing and took over.

Brilliant is a digital way to bring STEM to your family designed to provide daily math courses in areas of

  • Mathematical Fundamentals
  • Pre-Algebra
  • Geometry Fundamentals
  • Geometry 1
  • Algebra 1
  • Algebra 2

Brilliant is designed to help your student think logically in areas of math, science, and computer science. The program is for students in grades 6th – Adult. What is unique about Brilliant is students will move along a learning path as they work on areas of interest. My student is a rising 6th grader, but he really enjoys working at Brilliant. I think what caught his attention was one exercise with balance beam math, he instantly recognized the concept and enjoyed reviewing this in a digital form. I really enjoy the logical parts of Brilliant my husband and I take turns solving them. I also like how Brilliant will send you emails of new challenges and reminders to log in.

Brilliant exercises take about 10-15 mins to complete, if your student needs to break from the course the progress is saved until they are ready to work again. Students can toggle between math exercises, logic, science, and computer science fundamentals. There are over 60 + courses in the Brilliant Premium Subscription which is such a great variety of STEM learning opportunities that your homeschool is covered when using the Premium Subscription. Brilliant is downloaded to all of our Apple devices and we all are working on learning paths. My husband and I are in steady competition over who can complete the new challenges first. Our son has sometimes beaten us to challenges, but it is okay because I love the benefits we are getting from Brilliant.

If you would like to read more fabulous reviews on Brilliant Premium Subscription be sure to check out the Crew’s reviews by clicking the banner below.

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6th Grade, 7th Grade, Curriculum, Education, Homeschool, Middle School Math

TabletClass Math: Pre-Algebra Review!

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

As we move through our current school year my mind is always focused on the future of upper-level math for my son. We are pretty much set for this school year for math curriculums, but I have been wondering if we are on the right track for Algebra. I was given the opportunity to review TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra.

TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra is an online math curriculum with pre-recorded lectures. There is a student and parent portal, student portal is where your student will do their coursework. I really do like the parental portal it gives you an in-depth understanding of the curriculum along with answer keys. Once the student completes the course student you can print out a certificate. The parent portal is easy to use and gives you a pacing guide which I really love because it shows you the different levels of pacing from slower, average, and accelerated. Having this pacing guide will allow you to use TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra as it best works for your family.

TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra is a little long and reminds me of a traditional classroom lecture. Mr. Zimmerman opens the class by him teaching the lesson on a whiteboard, I really like this method of teaching because it encourages students to take notes. We are working on taking notes in our other curriculums and I am always on my son about taking accurate notes in his current math curriculum. I like how Mr. Zimmerman uses highlighting as he teaches the lessons, my son loves to highlight. I had my son watch a few of the videos and asked him what he thought of this teaching style, and if would it be something he would like to try, and he did point out to me that lessons are long, but he likes how Mr. Zimmerman writes great notes and teaches slowly each of the steps. I totally agree with his observations, and for this reason, I will pull this out when we are really struggling with a concept.

Parent Portal

How to Complete a Lesson

Students will take notes from the instruction video, I highly recommend you encourage your student to do this. After they watch the instruction video students will then work on the example problems, which are available to print out or students can work in a notebook. Once the student completes the first set of examples problems, they can go to the video that is marked for that section of problems and check their answers or correct the problems they didn’t get correct. I love this self-correcting option because Mr. Zimmerman walks them through the steps of each problem and your student can see what they did wrong and make the adjustments accordingly.

Student Portal

There are sixteen chapters in TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra currently out of those sixteen chapters I can honestly say that my son has had exposure to each of the topics covered. Now I said exposure not mastery, so with that being said will start from chapter one. One of the things I really enjoyed was Mr. Zimmerman’s tone of voice/pace, visual aids, and bits of humor in the lessons. I felt like he was having a conversation with the students rather than talking at them and rushing through the concept. My son watched the first video and instantly caught on to the concept being explained and didn’t feel overwhelmed.

What I found different about TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra is they really concentrate on those pre-algebra concepts that I remember in 8th and 9th grade. If your students don’t have the proper foundation for basic elementary skills, you will know right away once you start TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra. My son is almost 10 years old and works at a 6th-grade math level he had no problem looking over the topics we previewed, so I highly recommend you make sure your student has basic and early middle school math skills nailed.

Overall Review

I really like TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra it gives me that old-school way of learning upper-level math. Notetaking is a huge plus in my opinion because it is setting your student up for success with math and independent learning. The self-correcting alongside Mr. Zimmerman is also a plus because it not only helps your student to see their errors but also allows the parent to help students. The self-correcting also helps support your student with the organization. I don’t know how many times I have to tell my student to show his work in his current curriculum and have to explain why he needs to make this a habit. Mr. Zimmerman wants your student to show their work so they can review and better understand.

We will defiantly be using TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra once we finish our last 10 lessons in our current math curriculum to bridge the gap until we start our new curriculum in January. I would love to fit it into our rotation now, but I want us to finish these last 10 lessons first. I highly recommend this curriculum if you are looking for pre-algebra support. TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra also works well for those independent learners and for those families looking to help transition their students to independent learning. TabletClass Math Pre-Algebra tests and exams are also a big plus for me. I know some homeschoolers aren’t big on tests and exams, but I do like to have something that reflects that my student understands what he has been learning and use these results to help me with lesson plans and for his portfolio.

Be sure to check out the other crew member’s reviews of TabletClass Math by clicking the banner below.

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tabletclassmath
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tabletclassacademy/tabletclass-math/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/tabletclass

Curriculum, Education, Homeschool, Homeschool Family, Math, Middle School Math

CTCMath Review!

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

I think the CTCMath is one of my favorite reviews to write for the Homeschool School Review Crew! We received a 12-month family membership and we absolutely love CTCMath it is a must-have for our homeschool resources.

CTCMath is an online complete math curriculum for grades K-12 grade. The online math platform comes with:

  • Instructional Videos
  • Customizable Printables
  • Parent Dashboard
  • Task Manager
  • Lesson Tracking and Self Grading
  • Record Keeping
  • Award Certificates
  • Fluency Games

This year we approached CTCMath in a different way, I decided to make the program a part of our weekly math rotation. Previously we used it as a way to supplement when my son needed help with concepts he was learning in his spine curriculum. This year we are starting from the beginning of the 5th-grade concepts and we are going to work our way through all the concepts in order from start to finish. I decided to do it this way this year because I want to pinpoint and find holes. So far he has been progressing very well and we have only hit one hole I am making sure we review this concept and have it reviewed.

Each week I assign my son 3-5 tasks a week and when he finishes those tasks I assign the next set. I decided not to do the diagnostic assessment when we first started because I really wanted to work through the 5th-grade concepts, just in case, the assessment placed him higher because this homeschool year we are focusing on mastery of foundations.

Since I have made CTCMath part of our routine math lessons I am sure to include them in my lesson plan and my son’s checklist. I set the task to expire in 7 days so he has all week to get them completed and I have his pass grade set at 95 percent and 3 attempts. My son likes to spread his task out but he knows to get them done before the week is over.

What I really like about CTCMath is how easy it is to use, the lessons adapt to your students, the instructional videos are clear, and give excellent step-by-step examples. Sometimes I will print out the instructional lesson and place the examples in his math folder so he can reference them back. I really like the flow of CTCMath because it is straight to the point and not boring. If you are looking for a lot of graphics and huge amounts of math gaming CTCMath has very minimal.

CTCMath provides extensive reports of your student’s progress that can be easily printed off and slid into a student portfolio. I also enjoy the 5th-grade checklist you can also print out and track your student’s grades.

CTCMath is an affordable online math curriculum it has won many awards and remains to be one of the Homeschool Review Crew member’s favorite online math programs. It can be used as a supplement or a full math curriculum. Students can do their lesson digitally or they can print it out. Highly adaptable students have access to all grade levels on their dashboards. With individual student logins, this is great for multiple families.

I highly recommend CTCMath for all students it is worth the cost and I really love how it has grown with my son over the years. Be sure to check out the other Crew’s reviews by clicking the banner below.

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ctcmath/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CTCMathOfficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctcmath/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/ctcmath/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ctcmathyoutube

Curriculum, Education, Homeschool, Math, Middle School Math

Math Essentials: Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

Have you ever found that one resource that was your #1 go-to when needing to supplement a subject? Well, Math Essentials is my #1 go-to for all things supplemental for math. When all as fails I know for sure that any of my Math Essentials books in my homeschool arsenal will get the job down. There was no doubt I was completely on board when the Homeschool Review Crew was given the opportunity to review the Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 I was definitely wanting to be a part of this review.

There are 8 chapters in the Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2, this newly revised 3rd edition is designed for middle and high schoolers. The Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 is perfect for my rising 5th grader because we are currently working on middle school math in his spine curriculum. Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 covers:

  • Whole Numbers
  • Fractions
  • Decimals
  • Geometry
  • Percents
  • Integers
  • Charts & Graphs
  • Word Problems

Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 can be used as a full curriculum or as a supplemental. Practice takes an average of 20-30 minutes a day with each lesson with a corresponding video. The company recommends you use the book daily for math success. There are 8 steps to completing lessons:

  • Review Exercises
  • Speed Drills
  • Work through review problems
  • Introduction to new material
  • Helpful hints & sample problems
  • Daily exercises
  • Correct problems

You don’t have to follow this layout, but I will tell you that it will make the lessons go by smoother if do.

How We Use

We use Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 as our daily math warm-ups or we use it on Fridays as our math skills review. The only difference is I work the review exercises on the board. My son and I play this game in which he works on his book and me on the whiteboard and then we check each other’s answers. I purposely sometimes get the answers incorrect so he can check my work and show me he understands the review. Sometimes I let him watch the lesson videos and other times I teach the lesson and then he works on the problems and I check them and help him with any problems he has incorrect. I do also correlate Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 with my son’s spine math curriculum for extra practice.

Final Thoughts

Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 is a great math review book, perfect for prepping for those end-of-the-year assessments and SAT/PSAT prepping. The lessons sequence nicely together so there is no worry about students developing holes in their math. I like that the lessons are short to the point and there are video lessons.

A great amount of problem-solving and logic activities. Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 is available in Spanish and Bilingual. If you are looking for a math supplement for your middle or high school student I encourage you to check out Mastering Essential Math Skills Book 2 from Math Essentials. If you are interested in checking out Math Essentials Math and Algebra platform code CREW2022 and try for free for 3 months.

Be sure to check out the other Crew’s reviews on Math Essentials by clicking the banner below.