Homeschool mathematics

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Many school districts have adopted standards-based mathematics curricula, which were designed to teach mathematics substantially differently than it was taught to parents a generation ago, prompting groups like Mathematically Correct to claim that these new approaches are largely hindrances to mathematics instruction. For example, Investigations in Number, Data, and Space requires buying expensive books, materials, and extensive teacher training, and follows controversial research that traditional computing methods should not be taught to elementary students. By contrast, homeschoolers seek mathematics familiar to parent-teachers. Many with religious foundations favor a back to basics approaches to math and reading rather than what is being supported by the latest researchers. Since many public schools no longer offer traditional mathematics instruction, homeschooling or supplementing at home is an option.

Here are some of the more popular math textbooks that are being used by homeschoolers in the United States:

Saxon math is one method popular with homeschoolers. It combines traditional mathematics instruction with solving problems using a variety of math skills. While marketed primarily to homeschoolers, It is increasingly also being adopted by school districts dissatisfied with results with standards-based mathematics texts which often de-emphasize traditional computation methods. Such texts have met opposition from parents and people who use math in their real life careers, and Saxon is one of the most popular alternatives. ^[1]

Modern Curriculum Press is commonly cited as a simple, low cost consumable textbook series. It teaches mathematics familiar to the parents who will do the instruction. Textbook stores which sell homeschool materials such as Math-n-stuff.com, homeschooldiscount.com, and usedhomeschoolbooks.com recommend these books to homeschoolers. Most units cover instruction and practice on one page, and can be done by just the student in a fraction of an hour without long constructivist exercises recommended by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics involving family members to help cut, paste, color and answer survey questions.

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^ [1] "Back to basics on kids’ math" Alarmed by low scores, Tacoma school officials OK added Saxon textbook. by Debby Abe; The News Tribune (Tacoma WA) August 25th, 2006