A question on MathScore

Hi Maria - I am really enjoying your workbooks for the kids - I can't wait to get going on fractions.

I wanted to ask you do you see value in any of the online math practice programs for drill? I saw that HS Buyers Co-op is offering www.mathscore.com - at a discount and we are trying it out on trial - It's just pretty much basic drill for speed and accuracy. I don't want to waste the $$ on it - if that is not really important to math.
Thanks for any feedback.

I've personally visited and even reviewed Mathscore. Mathscore is not just about basic drill on addition or multiplication - they have basic word problems, geometry, etc. as well. It is more like a math practice system for any kind of basic problems.

Kids do need to learn their facts by memory. So "drill" is not bad in itself.

Obviously math instruction should not be only drill. You should just balance it all. Teach concepts, teach why something works, let them practice, and help them master their facts. Drill can be part of that whole package. Just don't rely on it.

For example, if you subscribe to MathScore, you could teach your kids a "normal" math lesson on one day, and the next day let them practice at MathScore. It is a tool, it can be very useful, but it is not essential if they get to do math problems some other way. Just try it out and see if the kids like it, but don't forget basic instruction on concepts.

My review
MathScore - direct link
Info on the discount at Homeschool Buyers Co-Op.

Math Mammoth Algebra 1 worksheets

News that some of you have been waiting for!

I've completed the Math Mammoth Algebra 1-A and 1-B worksheets collections. These worksheets cover all the topics in a typical algebra 1 course. Problems are again very varied.

The collection is designed to be used by teachers and tutors. It is not a text that explains algebra — it is a collection of worksheets or a workbook. But if you already have a textbook, the worksheets can supplement and provide extra practice, no matter what algebra program you're using.

Prices: Algebra 1-A is $6.50, 1-B is $5.50, answer keys $2 each. You can get both A and B plus their answer keys for $11.50.

Here are links to the sample worksheets:

1-A Contents
Variables and Expressions
Writing Equations
Rules With Subtraction
Ratios and Proportions
Explore Graphs of Linear Equations
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
Compound Inequalities Involving 'And'
Solving Linear Systems by Elimination

1-B Contents
Multiplying Powers
Special Products
Solving Quadratic Equations by Finding Square Roots
Applications of Quadratic Equations
Add and Subtract Rational Expressions with Unlike Denominators
More Radical Equations
Geometry Problems


Please click here for more info — or buy the collection at Kagi store.

HippoCampus

I just found out about this site yesterday, and it might be worth your while knowing about it, too.

HippoCampus.org has free online multimedia lessons for high school and college level.

The topics include algebra, introductory and intermediate calculus, physics, history, biology, and a few other subjects as well.

This whole project is supported by The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, and is free to use for general public.

I've seen several similar commercial services, so was surprised to see one that's free. It takes a lot of effort to make these interactive lessons, I would think.

Anyway, enjoy if it's your algebra or calculus time in math.