Saxon Math

We have only used Saxon 2 (2nd grade), 5/4, and 6/5. But we have 7/6, Algebra 1/2, and Algebra 2. We haven't used any other math programs so we can't compare. In our family we refer to Saxon math or curriculum math as "Newtonian math." Which just simply is a branch of math or the language of math.

As far as Saxon math goes it just works. We don't love it and we don't hate it. The kids are always willing and choose to do math everyday so it can't be to bad. We have continued to use it because it is what our kids were using in the public school. Saxon is very thorough. Almost to much so. It is highly repetitive. A good deal of the book is a review of the previous year's book. If your child is very math intelligent this may be to repetitious.

It is also all inclusive meaning that besides add/sub/mult/div the child also works on basic geometry, algebra, telling time, and measurement. I don't remember doing algebraic equations in elementary but these books are heavy into it by the 4th grade.

I think the reason they are so repetitive is that they are designed for public school. Last March when we pulled Olivia out of public school she was on lesson 47 out 142. While Olivia finished the book with me (we had to do a lot of Math) her fellow 4th graders did not. A couple of weeks ago the kids were talking to their friends. At the time Jared and Olivia were just starting the lessons in the 50's, but their friends were on lesson 20. Hmm... Now you know why they are so repetitive, the schools never get through them...

Okay, way of subject. We like them. We have them. If we could get our hands on Singapore (another famous math program) with out spending a lot of money we would probably switch. But free Math text books are good for now. (We had received them from previous homeschoolers).

Grade: B