Math ‘U’ See is mostly known for its videos with Mr. Demme’s instruction. The work books are very simple. No colorful drawings or pretty pictures. Just basic math. It is set up with three pages of teaching a new concept, three pages of review of all past topics and a test. It clearly states that your student might not need all the pages. I imagine some children would need it, especially if utilizing this program at the early part of their developmental ability. In my home, I teach math once they’ve reached their developmental readiness rather than teaching to grade level, so often I find that my kids need only one or two of the pages. My system isn’t for everyone, but works for us. Just be aware that it’s not required or even suggested to require completion of all the pages.
I do suggest the videos even if you utilize a different curriculum. They are nice for review and to help parent’s figure out some teaching ideas. They are for the parents to watch but I have my kids watch them as well.
From the Math ‘U’ See website:
Math-U-See provides a firm foundation in mathematics for students struggling in mathematics and with special needs. Teachers are provided the tools, skills, and training needed to present an explicit, structured, systematic, and cumulative program using multi-sensory teaching techniques.
Math-U-See was written by Steve Demme, a homeschool dad, for the homeschool community. Math-U-See’s unique approach targets each individual student and focuses on their specific needs. Rather than a curriculum designed for a classroom Math-U-See is designed with the homeschool “tutor” environment in mind.
How does the program work in home school setting?
Because we focus on the individual student, we are able to meet the unique needs of each student. The mastery approach utilized by Math-U-See is designed to give the parent clear understanding of when a student is ready to move to the next lesson.
Math-U-See is broken down to teach students specific skills that build as the student progresses. This systematic and cumulative approach uses a definite, logical sequence of concept instruction. The Math-U-See system is structured with step-by-step procedures for introducing, reviewing, and practicing concepts.
There are my styles of “home schooling” and because of it’s flexible approach Math-U-See fits well with each style. Here is a brief overview of how Math-U-See fits with a few different styles.
How does Math-U-See fit with the Charlotte Mason approach?
The lessons are short and free of “twaddle.” There are lots of opportunities for hands-on experience, and students are encouraged to “teach back” the concepts to the parent (narration).
How does Math-U-See fit with Classical Homeschooling?
Memorization of facts is encouraged in the early grades, and mastery of concepts required at every level.
How does Math-U-See fit with Traditional teaching methods?
Concepts are taught on dvd, and workbooks are used for practice and review.
How does Math-U-See fit with a Relaxed or Unschooling approach?
The books are not assigned grade levels, so it is easy for students to work at their own pace or interest level.
How does Math-U-See fit with Unit Studies?
Topics are grouped together by concept, helping students to see how math ideas are related to each other and the whole structure of mathematics.
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