During the 1990s, reform math programs like ‘Everyday Mathematics’ were widely embraced as the new wave by President Clinton’s Department of Education. As a result, school district after school district across the country adopted this new approach. But despite the adoration of the “experts”, the end result was dismal test scores.

For example, California schools embraced reform math programs in the early 1990′s. By 1996, California test scores plummeted to one of the lowest in the nation on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Finally in 1997, the California State Board of Education recognized reform math was a mistake and revised state standards to return to traditional math curriculum.

The problem with these reform math programs is that they approach … Read the rest of this post…

Teaching high school math at home is sometimes one of the subjects that homeschool parents dread the most.  But it doesn’t have to be that way – it can be a great experience.  There are a number of ways to ensure that high school math is a positive experience for all concerned.

First, remember that students are ready for this level of study (and if they are not – well – look at the bright side, if they are spending the year on remedial work, at least you don’t have to worry about teaching high school math yet).  It is simply the next step in their learning.  They may have some questions here or there, but typically no more than … Read the rest of this post…

As a new homeschool parent, I was worried about what I would teach my children. Questions popped into my head, like “How would I fill the time? Where will I find materials? Will I know what to do?” I quickly learned, however, that the real problem was deciding which materials to use and which not to use…there was no shortage of choices, but, rather, an excess. That is even more true today with unlimited internet access and helpful information at your fingertips. If you want advice on any homeschool topic, all you have to do is “Google” it. This blog is replete with information and sincere advice. As a homeschool parent, however, one of the biggest and scariest decisions you … Read the rest of this post…