Finding the Right Math Program

At the time I was learning about Visual Spatial Learners (see this post and this post), I found out about a free online math program called MEP.  It’s a spiral program versus a mastery based program and goes from K-12. 

My son had been doing Math-U-See.  We had switched him over from Saxon to MUS because he found Saxon tedious.  I’m using Saxon with two of my other children and they both like it quite well.  But it wasn’t for Zachary. 

I had my ds in a lower level of MUS because that’s where he placed when he took the placement test online.  He found it frustrating because he said he knew what they were teaching already.  Well, at the suggestion of another CM yahoo group member, I had him take the Grade 7 logic problems at the MEP site.  Of course, he had no trouble.  He has now completing the Grade 7 course. 

He is actually really enjoying it!  He says he’s learning new things instead of repeating concepts he already understood. (MUS)  Let me tell you it’s not baby stuff either.  This program has some complicated things, like Set Notation, that his dad and I couldn’t really get a handle on.  Even my oldest son, who has completed Algebra II noticed it was quite challenging. 

But guess what?  My son understands it!!  This is the boy I had doing basic math because I was insistent he learn the basics.  After all, the placement test said he belonged in basic math! 

I am really thankful I have found this program.  Some people have compared it to Singapore Math but as I’ve never seen Singapore Math, I couldn’t say.

There is also an online MEP Yahoo! group.  I don’t know that the MEP program is for everyone but I am so thankful that it was shared with me and I want to do the same for someone else who’s child may not have found the right "fit" yet.

The website can be a bit overwhelming at first glance, but if you just start clicking on the links it should become clear and understandable.