Choosing the "right" math experience is just the beginning.  Many parents wonder if there is truly a way to know which curriculum or math course is the "right" choice for their child. The short answer is probably not because the right curricula for one family may be completely different for the next family.  Finding the best homeschool math curriculum for your child depends on a combination of factors, such as the grade level of your child, the amount of instruction you want to do yourself, and your comfort level teaching math. The good news is that there are several factors that you can consider that will help you make an informed decision.  

Different Types of Math Programs

When choosing a math course, there are several options. Of course, parents/caregivers can go the traditional route and select your preferred textbook that matches your learner's unique learning style.  This is still a very common form of teaching math.  If you are a parent who is looking for support with teaching math, here are some popular homeschool options (1) live, instructor-led courses, (2) blended instructor-led courses with mixed asynchronous learning components, and (3) full, independent pre-recorded lessons.

Advantages of Live, Instructor-Led Math Classes

Naturally, a class taught by a live instructor simulates most of an actual classroom environment.  Additional advantages include: 

• • • • • • Live math classes incorporate a human element into the math class.

          • Live math classes are accessible from anywhere.

          • Live math classes allow for sessions to be recorded so students can review the content at later times.

          • Live math classes enable students and teachers to receive instant feedback.

          • Live math classes build a student’s time management skills.

How are Our Live Courses Structured?

We offer live, instructor-led math courses throughout the year. Our courses are designed to be authentically small and inclusive of all ability levels. Learners with divergent learning needs are provided with the necessary support to maximize their learning experiences.  An activity-based, multi-sensory method is the primary approach that is used to accommodate the diverse learning needs of our classes. The ultimate goal of our classes is to move at a pace that makes sense to the student to build a solid understanding of the concepts learned -- learning room to spark future curiosity and a love for math! We build inquiry, focus on depth over speed, and see mistakes as opportunities for growth. Your child develops a strong foundation by building real-world applications with Math, falling in love with it forever. 

What makes our classes different?

We are looking forward to serving your students and partnering with you this year! You may purchase course materials by clicking on the links below. Purchasing the teacher's guide is not necessary. If you would like to purchase the teacher's guide, please email info@efmeducation.com, and we will send you a link. 

All students will need basic school supplies that are probably already around your home. All students must have the following items to be successful in math: 

1. Math notebook or 1' binder with looseleaf paper (to use as scratch paper and to work out problems; there is a place and time for mental math!)

2. 3-5 Sharpened pencils

3. Erasers

Masters 1 (Mondays/Wednesdays - 9:00-10:00 am) (virtual)

Course Description: This math course will focus on a varied amount of instructional material to reinforce and teach new math skills including number theory and systems, algebraic thinking, geometrical figures and objects, measurements of lengths, the 4 operations, and more. Instruction will include creative videos, mathematical storytelling, practical math applications, and repetition to reinforce skills throughout the course.  

Recommended Textbook

Textbook - Teaching Textbooks, Only purchase of a subscription is needed. Note: Parents can print lessons and put them in a binder if a more kinesthetic approach works better for their learner; check website for updated pricing.

All digital and supplemental materials will be provided to your student in the Google Classroom.

Master 2 - (Mondays/Wednesdays - 10:00-11:00 am) (virtual)

Course Description: This math course is designed to be a multi-level course where students become critical thinkers and lifelong problem solvers!  Pre-algebra skills are typically introduced in middle school, around grades 6-7, where students begin working on foundational concepts like basic equations, fractions, decimals, and percentages. Algebra skills generally start in grades 7-9, depending on the student's readiness. For those ready for algebra, there will be a focus on solving linear equations, understanding variables, and exploring functions. The progression from pre-algebra to algebra is designed to build a strong mathematical foundation, preparing students for more advanced topics in high school math. For pre-algebra students, mastery will focus on number sense and operations, introductory algebra concepts, negative and positive numbers, equivalent equations, exponents, geometry and spatial sense, measurement, functions, and probability.

Pre-algebra-leveled students

Recommended Textbook

Textbook Option 1- Teaching Textbooks, (Math 6 or 7), Only purchase of a subscription is needed. Note: Parents can print lessons and put them in a binder if a more kinesthetic approach works better.

Textbook Option 2 - Denison Pre-algebra, This curriculum is "... written at a "basic" level focusing on reviewing and reteaching arithmetic, helping to fill in gaps, reducing math anxiety and recovering math confidence while introducing students to the abstract world of algebra 1 in an approachable way." Dension Pre-algebra comes with the following: 

• 1 Year Access to Denison Video Lessons, 

• A Spiral-Bound, Consumable Student Textbook that allows students to follow along (great for visual learners) easily, 

• Solution Videos (where every homework and test problem is worked out and explained), and 

• Solution Manual 

          Before purchasing the curricula, you can also try out one full week of Dension Pre-Algebra.

1. Calculator, Student (T1-108) (or similar)

Course Description: The goal of the prealgebra course is to build a solid mathematical foundation through the exploration of the fundamentals of arithmetic, including fractions, exponents, and decimals. Beginning topics in number theory and algebra, including common divisors and multiples, primes and prime factorizations, basic equations and inequalities, proportional relationships, functions, operations with ratios, and geometric figures will be the focus of mastery for students at the 7th-grade level. Our philosophy is that students develop more by becoming reflective thinkers and learning to solve problems they have not solved before, as opposed to memorizing rote procedures that allow them to become good "guessers".

Algebra-leveled Students

Recommended Materials

Textbook Option 1 - Thinkwell Homeschool (grade level will vary depending on last math grade level curriculum completed) - pretty thorough and rigorous curriculum with online features including video lessons, downloadable notes, 12-month unlimited access, assessments & worksheets; Price is $159.00 USD. Use the referral link above and get a 15% discount.

Textbook Option 2 - Teaching Textbooks (grade level varies based on last math level completed) -  engaging but less rigorous curriculum. If your learner is still catching up or is not fond of math YET, this may be a good fit. It is a self-paced, spiral curriculum with free access to the course for 12 months, features including automated grading, and printable eBook, designed for computers, tablets, and phones; the price is $58.95.

Textbook Option 3 - Art of Problem Solving (AoPs) (Prealgebra); AoPs Prealgebra videos (free) - rigorous curriculum for the more advanced student. Online features include supplemental video lessons with an online book; the price is $59.00 for Text & Solutions or $78.00 with an Online Book.

Textbook Option 4 - Denison Algebra 1, This standard Algebra 1 course is designed specifically for students who need to build confidence in math. It focuses on laying a strong foundation and equips students with the habits and techniques essential for success in higher-level math. The curriculum includes the following:

• 1 Year Access to Denison Algebra Video Lessons

• Solution Manual

• Chapter Tests and Solutions

• Solution Videos

• Parent Guide

Before purchasing the curricula, you can also try out one full week of Dension Pre-Algebra. The price is $175.00.

• • 1. 1. 1. 1. We all have those lessons with complicated multiplication and division,  but the skill being learned has nothing to do with that specific skill, so be sure to purchase a scientific calculator -- TI-30xa Scientific Calculator is a good option.

             2. Compass and Protractor 

             3. A ruler is a must-have for connecting two points on a graph. Translucent rulers are the most helpful!

             4. Optional. Who doesn't love gadgets? Check out The Stamp.  It's especially helpful in the upper grades for sketching coordinate planes.  

Additional digital and supplemental materials, including videos, Guided notes, handouts, and supplemental materials will be provided to your student in the Google Classroom.