WWYD for Algebra 2 (math u see or what I own)?

[sbgrace]

I have two 10th graders. One is just finishing MUS geometry, which has been good for him. The other is about 1/4 of the way through Algebra 2 after two program starts that weren't good fits. We are in an Algebra 2 program that requires me to do some planning/teaching and all the grading. I think, though, even if I had picked something like Derek Owens, I would need to be involved with this student for him to learn best. 

I have to decide where to go next with the one finishing geometry, and I'm struggling between using the program I already use with the other (I'm using Yay Math and supplementing with Prentice Hall) or Sticking with Math U See.

Geometry was his/our first try for MUS. It's the first math program I've ever used with this child that wasn't unpleasant. In fact, the first that hasn't involved melt downs I think. It's also the first math program he's been able to do without a lot of me right beside him to keep him focused. He learned and retained.  It just worked so well, I'd say ideally for him, that I am wondering if I should continue with Algebra 2 MUS. He's afraid it's too easy/not enough. I will add he is not likely headed toward a math heavy field in his future. 

So:

I could use the Algebra 2 program I have for his sibling with him. I don't think it's a terrible fit, but a drawback is that it would require me to be involved in the program with two kids in two different places. The plus of this choice is that it is no extra expense, and I already spent more on Algebra 2 than I intended. 

I could purchase MUS Algebra 2 for my 2nd child. I'm tempted because Geometry was so good for him compared to everything else I've used with him. But he's afraid it's not "enough."  I don't foresee him choosing a STEM field, but don't want to limit him. 

WWYD?

Edited December 8, 2019 by sbgrace

[MamaSprout]

Could you finish through MUS Precalculus and then have him do another precalculus (or maybe do College Algebra/ Trig so it didn't seem like a repeat?)

[...................]

Have you tried Teaching Textbooks?  For someone not going to be an engineer, it's a good program.  It has plenty of practice, built in teaching and grading features, and hints and second chances on homework, if you desire it.  My second child, not planning on a STEM degree completely teaches herself using this program and we could not be happier.  She is on her third year with it, and scored a pretty solid 540 in math as a 10th grader which we feel was good considering it's not her strong point, and because she had only completed Alg 1 and Geometry!  We expect a big score bump in math this year after finishing most of Algebra 2 and also practicing with Khan academy. 

We find the interface friendly and usable, and it is extremely affordable!  Less than 100.00 for the entire year.

Right now they haven't upgraded/merged away from Flash (they are working on it) so it doesn't work on the Chromebooks anymore.  (EDIT I was wrong it is working on Chrome and Chromebook!) It's working on Macs, or you could always get the DVD version if you're willing.  I don't know if it works on IE but I assume it does.

Edited December 10, 2019 by Calming Tea

[MerryAtHope]

If you do decide to use MUS, just know that the first couple of lessons review algebra one and have a lot of videos. I remember it took me by surprise when I took my oldest through. They aren’t paced like the normal lessons, and you’ll want to warn your son if he does it all without you. MUS met our needs, and I wouldn’t have qualms about using it again. It’s not the most rigorous out there, but it was a good fit for us. 

[hollyhock2]

If MUS works for him, I think I would keep going with it. If he does end up finding it too easy, you can always look for a supplement or something else at that point. It sounds like you have other programs at home, so that's great. My oldest son did really well with MUS Geometry but the Algebra 2 wasn't a good fit for him. He ended up doing TT Algebra 2, which was perfect.

[Zoo Keeper]

I would stick with the MUS, if it is working for both of you. 🙂  He could always go further in the MUS sequence if he needs/wants to go further.

[sbgrace]

Thanks for all the input, it was very helpful.

I did consider TT, which I hadn't thought of for him before, but decided to stick with what works (and, yes, builds confidence-that was a good way to think about it!), and I ordered the Math-U-See. 

My plan, if the Algebra 2 works, is to on to MUS Pre-Calculus and then rethink. I hope those two courses should give him a solid enough Algebra 2 foundation. If not, I do have lots of material I could supplement with. 

Edited December 12, 2019 by sbgrace