What is the difference between Math-U-See and other programs?
We teach by Concept, not by Rote Memory. We are a Mastery program, not a Spiral approach. We are multi-sensory. Visit What makes us unique? for details.
Is Math-U-See a complete curriculum?
Yes. Math-U-See is a complete K-12 skill-based, multi-sensory curriculum with video instruction.
How does Math-U-See prepare students for standardized testing?
Math-U-See covers core concepts found in standardized testing. Its focus on concept mastery gives students the tools to excel in a variety of different circumstances including testing.
How do I decide where to place my student?
Placement is based on skill level, not grade level. Please call our customer support team for help with your individualized placement questions.
If I haven’t previously used Math-U-See with my older student, can they start at their level or must they start in Alpha?
Students may start at any level if they have mastered the mathematical skills taught in previous levels of Math-U-See. Placement is based on skill level, not grade level. Please call our customer support team for help with your individualized placement questions.
Can a student start Algebra 1 without having previously used Math-U-See?
It is possible to use Algebra 1 without completing the earlier levels of Math-U-See. The prerequisites necessary to be successful in our Algebra 1 level are: a mastery of all basic operations, fractions, decimals, percents, integers, and basic understanding of exponents and roots; an understanding of standard, expanded, and exponential notation, and ability to convert between various notations; an ability to determine the least common multiple and greatest common factor for a set of numbers; an ability to manipulate, simplify, and solve basic algebraic equations; have completed our Pre-Algebra course or an equivalent course.
What levels are included in your high school math?
Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, PreCalculus, Calculus, and Stewardship make up our Secondary Math courses. Pre-Algebra or an equivalent course is a prerequisite to Algebra 1.
Can an older student learn the lesson concept on their own by watching the lesson video?
While Math-U-See encourages teacher/parent participation in our program, we recognize that some students can be successful in learning the Upper Levels of Math-U-See on their own. We suggest that there should be guidance from a committed parent or teacher, so that if the student struggles, the parent will be able to assist.
Can I buy the DVD or the student workbook separately? I don’t use the Instruction Manual or the Tests booklet.
No, these are sold in sets. The Instruction Pack includes the Instruction Manual and DVD. The Student Pack includes the Student Workbook and Tests booklet.
Do we really need to use manipulative blocks?
The manipulative blocks are the key to Math-U-See. We have found that those who are most successful in mastering and understanding each concept are those consistently using the manipulatives as recommended through Algebra 1.
Do I really need two sets of blocks?
Two sets will allow you to have ten pieces of each number. This is helpful when building the clock in the Primer through Beta levels. It is helpful to have the extra pieces when building larger problems in the Beta, Gamma and Delta level. If you have multiple students working at the same time in the same level, it is very helpful to have two sets. Each student would be able to build without having to wait on the other student.
What is the Classic curriculum?
The Classic curriculum refers to an older series of math books entitled Foundations, Intermediate, and Advanced, which were replaced in 2004. Call our customer support team with questions.
What do the titles of the general math series books mean?
They are the first six letters of the Greek alphabet. Using Greek letters expresses sequence without indicating grade level. Math is sequential. One of the distinct elements of Math-U-See is that we are based on developing sequential learning skills. Our sequence progresses according to skill level rather than grade level.
Are there special offers or discounts for large orders?
Math-U-See offers an excellent value for a video/DVD based curriculum. We strive to keep our prices reasonable, but do not have any special offers. You can check our Clearance Cart for items that are available at a discounted rate.
Do you sell used Math-U-See books?
No. Check our Clearance Cart to see if the items you need are available at a discounted rate.
What is the Math-U-See sequence for high school math courses?
Math-U-See uses this sequence: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, PreCalculus and Calculus. Algebra 1 is the first book to be done in the upper level sequence, as it is a prerequisite for both Geometry and Algebra 2. After you have completed Algebra 1, you can proceed to Geometry. Pre-Algebra or an equivalent course should be completed prior to Algebra 1.
What level of Math-U-See should my student finish before taking chemistry?
The student should have finished Algebra 1 before starting chemistry. If your student is taking Algebra 2 at the same time as chemistry, contact us for a suggested alternate order of lessons that may be helpful.
What level of Math-U-See should my student finish before taking physics?
At the minimum, a student should have finished Algebra 1 and Geometry before beginning physics. The basic trig functions, which are used in physics, are presented at the end of the Math-U-See Geometry course. Taking physics and Algebra 2 together should work for most students. Some students may already be in PreCalculus when they begin physics, which will be to their advantage, although not absolutely necessary.
When does Math-U-See allow the use of calculators?
If you are confident that your student can do the basic operations easily, you may allow calculator use in Pre-Algebra and up for the more cumbersome problems, such as surface area. We encourage students to continue to do shorter problems without a calculator. A scientific calculator is needed for PreCalculus.
In which level is Trig included? Why is it not its own category?
Traditionally, trigonometry was the course taught before calculus. Today, it is more customary to call the same course precalculus, perhaps because calculus is now offered in most high schools. By either name, the course is essentially the same — lots of trigonometry and some advanced algebra topics. Math-U-See combined the names and calls its course PreCalculus with Trigonometry.
What grading system does Math-U-See recommend?
Math-U-See does not have a recommended grading system. The primary purpose of test taking is to confirm that the student has mastered each concept as you move along. If you want or need to give grades, you may use any system that makes sense to you, and that you feel fairly reflects your child’s progress.
Does Math-U-See publish any international editions?
Math-U-See publishes special editions for several English-speaking countries. For contact information go to our International Distributors page.
What payment methods do you accept?
Our online shopping cart securely and efficiently handles credit card payments from Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit or debit cards. Contact us at 888.854.6284 (MATH) to learn about alternate payment methods we accept.
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