Algebra... more confused than ever!

[TMarie]

What would be your vote for the best video-based algebra program?

 

The more I read posts here on the board, the more confused I become!So, I'm hoping to throw this question out to gain some clarity. My soon-to-be 7th grader is finishing up Singapore 6B. She is a bright, but average student. She is college bound, but we don't know yet what field will interest her most. She doesn't have problems with math, but doesn't love it either. I want a thorough program, but it doesn't have to be "rigorous." ;) My only requirement is that the material is taught via video, my children all respond well to video format.

[LisaNY]

I was all set to use a textbook for our Algebra/Geometry studies, but I've decided to go with a video-based course for now. It is MUCH better if someone else presents the material to my dd. :001_smile:

 

I would suggest that you get the free samples of both Videotext and Chalkdust, then let your dd decide which "clicks" best with her. My dd viewed both, and picked VT. She liked that the "teacher" presented the material, and then the problems were worked out graphically without the teacher. She just wanted to see the numbers manipulated with computer graphics. It was more orderly to her. Also, the lessons are shorter than those in CD. (around 10 minutes vs 25 to 30)

 

Math Relief is another popular. less expensive video program. There are no samples, though.

 

CD and VT are both great programs. Their success lies in their ability to "click" with your particular child.

[Bula Mama]

My dd is doing well using MUS Algebra I which teaches the lesson by video but then the student masters the material before moving one.

 

I don't want to confuse you more (!) but my other dd loves Teaching Textbooks which are kind of like a video on the computer where you are talked through the lessons without seeing a teachers face.

 

These are by far my 2 favorite programs for upper level math.

[Kirsten in MO]

My son used VT for Algebra I and Algebra II and liked them a lot. I wanted him to try something else for Geometry, so we used Chalkdust, and he said he much preferred the VT. He thought the explanations were much better with VT. I didn't like the text that was used with the Chalkdust Geometry, but I can't speak for the Chalkdust Algebra because we didn't use it. If I had it to do again, I would have just let him stick to what he liked...Videotext!

 

That probably doesn't help you much! Hope you get more opinions!

 

Kirsten

[Hoggirl]

I really like Prof. Mosely's teaching. I think you will find a pretty even divide among those that like CD and those that like Videotext. The suggestion of getting samples of both and watching is a great one. All the best in your decision-making.

[Tullia]

We used it for remediation after my son's high school years got off to a rough start. I think it's best used with younger students (beginning about 7th or 8th grade) because doing that allows a student the opportunity to follow VT Algebra and Geometry with a more traditional textbook like those used with Chalkdust or one of the texts that the "mathy" folks who post here recommend...if a student's plans require more math.

 

We liked the different VT presenters combined with the graphics. I watched all the lessons and found that the graphics helped me understand some things I remember having trouble with in high school. Still, as Lisa says it all depends on what works best for you.

 

My son's experience so far has been that VT has prepared him for the algebra and geometry on the SAT and ACT. I should add, though,that his math scores aren't anything to brag about. It's the one area where his test scores don't reflect his general abilities; he works slowly.

 

I think there are samples available for MUS, VT, CD, and TT. I suggest you look at all the samples you can, and also compare what the different programs offer in the way of support, teacher's manuals, solutions, etc. Looking at scope and sequence is good, but it's not the whole story. IMO, it's best to have a math program that works for both of you. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend either CD or VT. I'm not familiar enough with MUS or TT to offer any helpful comments.

[tammi]

I used Lial's CDs video. My daughter watched them and then did the book.

Tammi

[TMarie]

Thank you all for the quick responses! It is very helpful to to see your recommendations. :thumbup1: