How to Evaluate Math Textbooks

Choosing a homeschool math textbook is one of the most important decisions you will make. The right decision can produce a child who progresses at an above average rate while the wrong textbook can hinder or even bring progress to a standstill. Individual learning style as well as individual teaching styles both factor into the textbook evaluation process. Additionally, price is also a consideration, as some math textbooks are substantially more than others.

Instructions

    • 1

      Observe how your child learns best. Note her preference of learning materials, such as multimedia productions, images on paper, auditory narrations and lectures or reading at her own pace.

    • 2

      Seek out reviews of all of the available homeschool math curricula. Homeschool forums at The Well-Trained Mind, Sonlight and The Old Schoolhouse are excellent resources for finding honest reviews.

    • 3

      Visit the websites of homeschool math publishers, such as Teaching Textbooks and Saxon for free sample units and assessment testing.

    • 4

      Deliver the sample units to your student, and observe her reaction. Ask her questions about the delivery method, the problems solved and the explanations of topics to get some feedback.

    • 5

      Evaluate the parent guide. The parent guide becomes more important as the student progresses into higher math. Determine if the guide will be enough for you to help your student solve difficult problems.

    • 6

      Post any concerns to the homeschool forums, and seek more advice. The more advice you hear, the more capable you are to make a decision. Ask others why they did or did not like a particular program.

    • 7

      Contact the company's sales and support division for more clarification if necessary.

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