Please keep doing videos like this! It's so nice to be able to see the different curricula and to find out what you really need and can do without before buying anything. Thanks for sharing!
I know this is several years later but thank you! I’m jumping into homeschooling all three of my kids in January and we will be using Math u see- this video was so helpful!
Fractions sealed the deal for me too! Grateful to hear that it went well with your kiddos! I am a first time home schooler leaning towards math-u-see for my girls! Thank you SO much Erica for this video!!!
I just found the 2 boxes of manipulative blocks for Math U See in the wooden boxes for $8 total. I am so excited to try this with my 8 y.o. daughter who is ASD1/ ADHD with dyscalculia. I couldn't find the manuals but what a savings!!! Thanks for this video. We are new to this program and homeschooling.
Such an incredibly helpful video! I am super brand new to homeschooling (my oldest is starting kindergarten) and I'm nervous about it but this video eased my nerves so much!! I am going to go through and watch more of your other videos! I ordered the timberdoodle set and it uses math u see for math! I am an engineer, so I love math but now I am super excited!!
Thank you for the in-depth look into Math-U-See. I'm struggling to find the proper math curriculum for my 2nd grader. I feel this may be a good fit for both of us. Thank you.
Do you mind my asking what you decided with math for second grade? We're struggling a bit and have been using Horizons but it's going real quick and I'm afraid she isn't mastering the concepts before the books moving on!
+Angelina Joy we've been using math u see since September. We've enjoyed it. We took the placement test and bought the books suggested. My daughter has been able to grasp all the concepts thus far. I also enjoy the DVDs videos that you watch prior to each new lesson. Sorry your daughter is having a hard time :( Math should be fun. Id say give math u see a try!
Thank you so much for this amazing video. I have been watching many videos on CZcams in order to decide which Math curriculum would be best for my daughters since they are both visual learners and understand better when using hands on material.The way you explain how to use the curriculum and how to spread the worksheets over weekdays was very helpful for me as a mother and hopefully easy to implement : )
Thank you so much for this awesome review! I was having the hardest time visualizing what Math U See was all about, and what I actually needed to buy. This has been so helpful!
As a mom who is picking out materials to homeschool for the first time next year my K and 2nd grader, I cannot thank you enough for all of your resources!!!! Just "seeing" some of these products/curriculums I hear about is bringing so much relief to me because at least I know what they are and how they work. Thank you so much for sharing!!!
Thank you so much for the curriculum review. We use Math U See for my son's K5 year. Of course we're on the Primer and we LOVE it! I'm actually quite good in math, but I'm sure get even better with this program and teaching it to my kids. I'm looking forward to seeing other curriculum reviews. God Bless.
This was very thorough. Thank you so much. I like that you show how you use it during the week. I'd heard of math u see but just looking at the materials on the website, they didn't seem very engaging, but and a few other videos I've seen about how people use it, are so helpful that I'm pretty sure we're going to try Math U See.
Thank you so much for your video. We found this very helpful, especially because we haven't been able to find the curriculum to thumb through like I'd hoped. Thank you again.
Thank you so much for posting this video and really explaining all this......I have been having confusion as to which math curriculum to choose so I just ordered a few diff books form diff places but this video sold me!!😊I have 3 kids so for sure I am going with this!!
I've always liked the idea of those wooden storage boxes, but at $40 a box I've stayed away. Mine are still in the cardboard box they were shipped in. It's important to note that not all kids will need the blocks. My oldest two used them when they were starting in Primer. By Beta they no longer needed them. My youngest barely ever used them. I don't know if MUS still offers the faction card system to use with Epsilon. I bought it for my kids thinking this would help visualize fraction concepts. MUS is probably the best program I've used for teaching math.
Thank you so much , also want to say what great job you have done with all the curriculum You provide us moms!! You have truely blessed me beyond measures. I just finished downloaded your sight words cause I have noticed my daughter is having a hard time with the sight words we are doing horizons complete k curriculum but I feel like in so behind.
Got our Primer Student Workbook delivered today! We got our teacher's manual, DVD, manipulatives, and skip counting CD at our local home school consignment shop. So excited!
Your video helped me so much as a new homeschooling mother. I would love a box like this but having a hard time finding it. Do you have a link where I can purchase? Thank you!
Fantastic review. So informative, detailed and helpful. Especially the little nugget about buying used curricula materials - didn't even know I could! If you know of any websites that sell used educational materials pls do let me know. Thanks!
You can check my buy/sell/trade section here: community.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/c/buy-sell-trade You can also check eBay and Homeschool Classifieds as well.
Thank you so much! I am picking curriculum for 6th grade and it's overwhelming. We've mainly used Horizons and I like it. But the teacher's manuals are lacking for someone like me who isn't great at math. I've survived fractions, but I am concerned about middle school.
Hi, no I'm sorry I believe they've stopped carrying that case. You might be able to find one on eBay. Now they come in a box with a plastic divider insert.
My son did the Horizon Kindergarten Math. What age is the primer for? I really love how visual this is and my son loves math. this would be great for him! He is currently learning addition and skip counting. Thank you for the in depth review!
We started on primer a few months ago. Sadly my son (5) hates it and finds it super boring. I have taken breaks and went back to it but after a few days he just refuses to do the lessons. Like you mentioned it seems way too easy for him. I’m not sure if I should switch over to alpha or find a new math curriculum all together.
I remember finding the box you used to use from The Container Store on your website. Did you go from that to the jewelry box? We have been using it for years. I'd definitely prefer that wooden box though, nice! I have been comparing MUS with Teaching Textbooks for pre-algebra. I think we're sticking with MUS. I've always liked it. Thanks.
Yes, I started using the smaller bead box because it fit in our drawers easier and I split up our blocks for those who needed them so they each had some blocks in their math drawer.
Hi Erica, I'm thinking about switching to Math U See from Rod and Staff. My two kids would be going into Alpha and Gamma. You mentioned that the instruction pack wasn't necessary for lower grades. I was planning on purchasing the integer block kit and student pack for each unit (Alpha & Gamma). How critical is the teacher guide and dvd per these levels? Thanks Heather
Thank you for the in depth review! We currently use Saxon and wanted to know how they compare. We homeschool many different age levels and were thinking the videos would help.
Can you please do a review on the grapevine curriculum and what you think is helpful to purchase in this set. Also, how are you liking the Picture Smart Bible curriculum?
We are using your K4 program. I'm trying to figure out when I should start the "Primer" with your K4 or first grade level? It seems you used the Primer with your K4. I'm asking because you have some basic math within your program. We loved your "Letters of the Week"
I know this is an older video but this has been so helpful. I’m assuming it hasn’t changed much. Do you find that they transition well from the blocks to paper well? I’m not quite sure how my son learns just yet other than he does like creative play a ton and grasps concepts really easy so repeating can be boring for him. Any advice on starting this out as a second grader? Should I purchase the primary and the following one together? I have a pre k student too so I know he will use the beginner as time goes on. Thanks for sharing this.
Hi, yes transition from blocks to paper is fairly natural and as they progress they gradually stop needing the blocks. I would probably just start with Beta for your 2nd grader, but they do have a placement test on their website so you can see where you fall.
Hi Erica! I love your videos! I’m starting this program in Epsilon with my 7th trader to focus on the conceptual part of math. Do you think the digital manipulatives are fine for us or would you recommend the blocks?
Erica, my youngest is going into 3rd grade. This is our first year homeschooling. Unfortunately, he is testing on a 1st grade level in math. He still uses his fingers to count and is very dependent on number lines. I was considering placing him in math u see and starting in alpha. Do you think this is a good program for remediation?
Did you do the primer level and if so at what age? Have they always watched the videos themselves or did you start out watching the video and teaching them? Also, I know in your more recent videos that you have changed math curricula so do you still recommend this or if you were to do it over would you have gone with something else? I'm torn between a few but mainly math u see and Saxon
Thank you for this review. We started homeschooling this year and I want to try MUSee for my fourth and six graders next school year. How should I transition from traditional Math books to MUSee at this level?
Would you say that each level lasts an entire year? We just started homeschooling, and our 1st and 4th grader have been using Saxon Math at their charter school. I think this looks like a great program, but I'm struggling to understand how one skill (addition or multiplication) can encompass an entire year. And if you have to use multiple levels per year, it will get quite pricey.
+kelleykj Yes, each level lasts 1 year for us. They usually have 30 weeks worth of lessons plus several extra worksheets for each week. At the end of the year I pull out the extra sheets and we just review for the last couple of weeks.
Wow, this was so thorough, thank you! I do have a question though, what is the iPad application called? I couldn't find it in an initial search in the app store
Hi, Erica, I would like to know where did you get and what is the of the iPad application and how much did it cost you. This will be a great way to teach my three year old basic math skills. Thank you very much.
what level does a rising 2nd grader need. she's a fast learner but doesn't seem to want to know the place value concept or adding things like 78 t 74. doesn't want to put the 1 with the 7s.
+Tonya & Michael Asquith They have placement tests on their website so you might want to do that first. I would normally suggest starting with Beta, but that's subtraction and it assumes you've already been through multiple digit addition. So if she's struggling with that you might want to either start with Alpha so she can get good at adding place values, or at the very least work on some of their free worksheets over the summer, then start her with Beta next year. They have free printable sheets on their website, but the blocks and lessons help them understand place value. So it might be beneficial to start with Alpha before moving on. They're also really friendly! You can contact them and ask their opinion as well and they might have a better solution for you.
I have a sixth grader who still struggles with multiplication facts. We are currently on Teaching Textbooks doing fractions (multiplication/division). I would like to switch over to Math U See. I would love any input you might have on which curriculum you would suggest. My gut tells me to get the level she is on, and use the blocks to do extra work on her multiplication facts. Thanks in advance
It depends on how you schedule it. For us, the first day is longer because we view the DVD lesson, plus do a worksheet. Then they do 1 worksheet on Tues and Wed. We also do a worksheet plus a test on Thursday so again we're doubling up. So I would say about 10-15 min. for the video, then I usually give my kids about 30 to complete their worksheets, so I schedule 45min per day for math. Some days it takes all 45 min. some days it's less depending.
How do your kids stay focused during an assignment with the other kiddos asking questions while the others are trying to read the instructions or notes?
Good question, we have four kids and so I think they just naturally learn how to focus in the midst of noise. I do have some tips in this post on helping your child to focus as well that might be helpful: www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/blog/2010/02/ear-protection-for-peace.html
This was a great video, I will be purchasing this for my kids and I wanted to know. My sons will be in 9 and 7 and my daughters will be in 1st and preschool, do you recommend they take the placement test first? My son that is going into the 9th is having a terrible time in math his in 8 in Abeka and doing 7th grade math and this program seems great for him and all my children.
Hi Erica! I hope you see this and can respond. ❤️I'm looking at Math u See for my oldest. I'm curious does the Algebra 1 review pre Algebra or just go straight into the Algebra 1 topics assuming the child had the pre algebra course?💕thanks!
There is a bit of review but if he's not strong on pre-algebra you might want to go over that. MUS has a placement test on their website, you might want to try that to see where to start.
My wife saw the blocks on this past. we really like the idea of them for our daughter with auditory processing disorder, but we can not find the wooden box/block holder. Can you send me a link? Thank you.
Hi Judd, Unfortunately I think they stopped selling the wooden boxes, you might be able to find a used one on eBay or something. But they've moved to a plastic type tray.
Do they have an android app too or just ipad? We are in the middle of the primer with my five and a half year old. Don't think it's too easy for Kindergarten. It gives them a good foundation. I prefer mastery too. The spiral approach sometimes feel a bit like taking a four year old and teaching him English and Russian letters at the same time, with worksheets with both on the same page.
The video is dated 2015 but I can't find new or used supplies for anywhere close to the prices mentioned. Has MUS drastically increased its prices and popularity? Where can I find used blocks reasonably? Thanks!
Hi Merissa, I'm sorry but this is an older box and they stopped selling them. They've moved to a plastic box now. I did get a plastic box with movable dividers from the bead/jewelry section at Michaels that works great for storing the blocks!
I started my very first year with Abeka and quickly changed to MUS the following year. We did try Saxon there for a few months at one point, but went right back to MUS :) So technically yes, we've used it since the beginning!
Did you feel the need to supplement anything other math along with MUS? How old is your oldest and what level is your oldest child on? Just wondering because I see ppl saying that they felt the need to supplement. I'm new my daughter is about to finish primer. Just trying to find guidance from experienced homeschool moms who have already walked the path.
where did you get this wooden container?! ive been trying to find it but no clue where to look.. we just got math u see primer.. also when you do lessons do u do 1 per day like lesson one do page 1a next day page 1b nedt 1c and so on?
They sent it to me, and you used to be able to get it from their website, however I believe they discontinued it and went to a plastic carrying case thing instead.
I have been looking for where to buy the block kit in the wooden case and can't find it anywhere on any website. It appears that the only block kit available from Math-U-See does not come in a wooden case or have the 2's, 3's, 4's, 6's, 7's 8's, or 9's. Only 1's, 5,'s 10's and 100's. Do you have a link to this product?
My blocks came in a cardboard box. The case was separate. I think you're talking about the expansion pack you need the starter kit. If you can't find it it's probably listed with their primer kit.
Hi Krista, They have a placement test on the MUS website you can take to decide where the best place to start is. You may also want to contact them and talk with a representative who can help guide you as well if you have something specific that your son needs more help with.
I found it here: www.amazon.com/Chicka-Boom-Alphabet-Tree/dp/B004ZAKG7S but there's also a wall bulletin version here: www.amazon.com/Palm-Tree-Bulletin-Board-Set/dp/B0019N0VJM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1424109260&sr=8-1&keywords=palm+tree+bulletin+board and I have downloadable letters on the "free printables" section of my blog for the letters.
ack! i didnt like the video chopped right where you werent finished with a sentence... ugh what did i miss! :P there was one thats especially bad where i think you were saying something like "you want these unless...." or something? lOL :P so i want to ask what you think. i was looking on the website and we did the placement and my 9 year old can go into gamma. HOWEVER< i dont feel like he "mastered" addition/subtraction. should i do the previous level and double year it or something?
I don't think you were missing anything critical LOL! Probably just poor editing on my part :) I'll try to do better. If your son hasn't mastered Addition/Subtraction, you may want to review the Beta level first to review those concepts before moving to Gamma. You can certainly move faster through Beta if you like, or even maybe use the free download review worksheets from Beta until you feel like he's comfortable with it before moving on. I also like the free 5 minute math drill worksheets as well for drilling math facts. www.math-aids.com/Addition/Addition_Drills.html
sweet! thanks! we have the math we had been using, singapore i think, with HOD. so we might fly through that, work on anything he struggles with and then start with gamma... but ill try those sheets too! :) awesome! thanks!
Hi, we went through Algebra 2, my kids do well on standardized testing, but we decided to switch to Shormann math for upper high school because it's a bit more rigorous and more college preparatory.
This "colors" method would result conflicting to a child in the spectrum. Would get him used to these "patterns" and frustrated, later on, when the colors and the numbers woudln't "match" any more...
Hi, I am going to be homeschooling my son this coming school year and I'm interested in this particular math curriculum. My only concern is that he is coming from public school 3rd grade where he didn't grasp the math concepts but he was promoted to 4th grade in spite of that. So, if I use Math U See 4th grade curriculum, do you think he would be able to grasp the concepts enough to master 4th grade math? Or, should I start him on 3rd grade and then move him to 4th once he's mastered it? Thanks
Hi Olaifa, I would suggest having him take the placement test on the MUS website. You might also ask a MUS representative as well, they're usually very helpful and informative! MUS teaches in a bit different order, so its possible he's lacking in certain areas and ahead in others. They can give you a better clue as to what grade is best to start him with.
How long are most of the lessons on the DVD? Is there kind of an average? I'm just curious if they would spend 20 minutes watching the lesson or an hour. Thank you!
@@erica_arndt, The update they did back in 2012 was not to meet the common core standards, but to improve some of the instructional material to make it clearer, add more thorough step-by-step solutions, and add an extra enrichment page to each lesson in the student's workbook. But none of the lesson content or the methodology has ever changed over the last 20+ years.
Hello I’m in the uk. So our school year groups seem different to your so finding it hard to know what age to start math u see. My two children are Age 7 born in March Age 4 born in July
Please keep doing videos like this! It's so nice to be able to see the different curricula and to find out what you really need and can do without before buying anything. Thanks for sharing!
I know this is several years later but thank you! I’m jumping into homeschooling all three of my kids in January and we will be using Math u see- this video was so helpful!
Very helpful & thorough. As a mama that likes to touch and feel before purchasing a curriculum, this was the next best thing. Thanks a ton!
I agree!
Fractions sealed the deal for me too! Grateful to hear that it went well with your kiddos! I am a first time home schooler leaning towards math-u-see for my girls! Thank you SO much Erica for this video!!!
Thank you, I'm new to homeschooling. Taking my daughter out of public school. This just really went into detail like I needed.
I just found the 2 boxes of manipulative blocks for Math U See in the wooden boxes for $8 total. I am so excited to try this with my 8 y.o. daughter who is ASD1/ ADHD with dyscalculia. I couldn't find the manuals but what a savings!!! Thanks for this video. We are new to this program and homeschooling.
It's too bad they don't come in wooden boxes anymore :-( Hope it's been going well for you!
Such an incredibly helpful video! I am super brand new to homeschooling (my oldest is starting kindergarten) and I'm nervous about it but this video eased my nerves so much!! I am going to go through and watch more of your other videos! I ordered the timberdoodle set and it uses math u see for math! I am an engineer, so I love math but now I am super excited!!
This was SO helpful. The website is super confusing. Big thank you!
Thank you for the in-depth look into Math-U-See. I'm struggling to find the proper math curriculum for my 2nd grader. I feel this may be a good fit for both of us. Thank you.
Do you mind my asking what you decided with math for second grade? We're struggling a bit and have been using Horizons but it's going real quick and I'm afraid she isn't mastering the concepts before the books moving on!
+Angelina Joy we've been using math u see since September. We've enjoyed it. We took the placement test and bought the books suggested. My daughter has been able to grasp all the concepts thus far. I also enjoy the DVDs videos that you watch prior to each new lesson. Sorry your daughter is having a hard time :( Math should be fun. Id say give math u see a try!
+April MacDonald thank you!!
Thank you so much for this amazing video. I have been watching many videos on CZcams in order to decide which Math curriculum would be best for my daughters since they are both visual learners and understand better when using hands on material.The way you explain how to use the curriculum and how to spread the worksheets over weekdays was very helpful for me as a mother and hopefully easy to implement : )
Thank you so much for this awesome review! I was having the hardest time visualizing what Math U See was all about, and what I actually needed to buy. This has been so helpful!
As a mom who is picking out materials to homeschool for the first time next year my K and 2nd grader, I cannot thank you enough for all of your resources!!!! Just "seeing" some of these products/curriculums I hear about is bringing so much relief to me because at least I know what they are and how they work. Thank you so much for sharing!!!
Thank you so much for the curriculum review. We use Math U See for my son's K5 year. Of course we're on the Primer and we LOVE it! I'm actually quite good in math, but I'm sure get even better with this program and teaching it to my kids. I'm looking forward to seeing other curriculum reviews. God Bless.
Thanks for this! I need to decide on a math curriculum for 2nd grade and this was very helpful.
Thanks for showing us the bead box alternative
This was very thorough. Thank you so much. I like that you show how you use it during the week. I'd heard of math u see but just looking at the materials on the website, they didn't seem very engaging, but and a few other videos I've seen about how people use it, are so helpful that I'm pretty sure we're going to try Math U See.
Great video. Wish this program existed when I was in school.
Thank you so much for your video. We found this very helpful, especially because we haven't been able to find the curriculum to thumb through like I'd hoped. Thank you again.
I love your in depth review of the different levels!
God bless you for your beautiful labor over your little ones, and thank you deeply for the review.
Thank you so much! I love your videos. I just ordered my math u see for my kiddos. You made me feel so much better about committing to this program!!
Thank you so much for posting this video and really explaining all this......I have been having confusion as to which math curriculum to choose so I just ordered a few diff books form diff places but this video sold me!!😊I have 3 kids so for sure I am going with this!!
I've always liked the idea of those wooden storage boxes, but at $40 a box I've stayed away. Mine are still in the cardboard box they were shipped in. It's important to note that not all kids will need the blocks. My oldest two used them when they were starting in Primer. By Beta they no longer needed them. My youngest barely ever used them. I don't know if MUS still offers the faction card system to use with Epsilon. I bought it for my kids thinking this would help visualize fraction concepts. MUS is probably the best program I've used for teaching math.
Excellent review! I am looking into the curriculum and this answered all of my questions!
Thank you for sharing this! I so needed to see this. So helpful.
Thank you so much , also want to say what great job you have done with all the curriculum
You provide us moms!! You have truely blessed me beyond measures. I just finished downloaded your sight words cause I have noticed my daughter is having a hard time with the sight words we are doing horizons complete k curriculum but I feel like in so behind.
Got our Primer Student Workbook delivered today! We got our teacher's manual, DVD, manipulatives, and skip counting CD at our local home school consignment shop. So excited!
Great fantastic review! Thank you so much! This was truly helpful! Thanks Erica.
Love this video absolutely wonderfully done. THANKS ERICA!!!
This is an excellent video explaining maths u see. Thank you.
Your video helped me so much as a new homeschooling mother. I would love a box like this but having a hard time finding it. Do you have a link where I can purchase? Thank you!
Excellent video!
Fantastic review. So informative, detailed and helpful. Especially the little nugget about buying used curricula materials - didn't even know I could! If you know of any websites that sell used educational materials pls do let me know. Thanks!
You can check my buy/sell/trade section here: community.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/c/buy-sell-trade
You can also check eBay and Homeschool Classifieds as well.
This is an excellent video, thank you
Just ordered epsilon
Thank you so much for making this video, very insightful!
Thank you so much! I am picking curriculum for 6th grade and it's overwhelming. We've mainly used Horizons and I like it. But the teacher's manuals are lacking for someone like me who isn't great at math. I've survived fractions, but I am concerned about middle school.
Thank you. Very well explain. Thanks erica
Does Math U See sale that wood storage for the manipulatives?
Hi, no I'm sorry I believe they've stopped carrying that case. You might be able to find one on eBay. Now they come in a box with a plastic divider insert.
My son did the Horizon Kindergarten Math. What age is the primer for? I really love how visual this is and my son loves math. this would be great for him! He is currently learning addition and skip counting. Thank you for the in depth review!
Primer is Kindergarten.
Erica Arndt if your child did not start off with math u see, and is starting it in 1st grade, which do you pick?
Thank you!!
Loved this review...its helped me TONS!
We started on primer a few months ago. Sadly my son (5) hates it and finds it super boring. I have taken breaks and went back to it but after a few days he just refuses to do the lessons. Like you mentioned it seems way too easy for him. I’m not sure if I should switch over to alpha or find a new math curriculum all together.
Thank you so much! This was just what I needed to see!
I remember finding the box you used to use from The Container Store on your website. Did you go from that to the jewelry box? We have been using it for years. I'd definitely prefer that wooden box though, nice! I have been comparing MUS with Teaching Textbooks for pre-algebra. I think we're sticking with MUS. I've always liked it. Thanks.
Yes, I started using the smaller bead box because it fit in our drawers easier and I split up our blocks for those who needed them so they each had some blocks in their math drawer.
excellent review, thank you!
Thank You for the review. im thinking of home school. a bit nervous but I love the visual on these math
Great video. Thanks!
Thanks for the video. I have heard about this curriculum but didn't really know much about it. This was such a helpful overview!
Interesting concept, but it seems like a step back from just using an abacus. Just a thought.
I live in Australia. An Australian business is charging $175 for the blocks (not including the wooden trays)!!
Yikes!
Great presentation! I read mixed reviews so wasn't sure about using this program. It looks really gpod
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Erica, I'm thinking about switching to Math U See from Rod and Staff. My two kids would be going into Alpha and Gamma. You mentioned that the instruction pack wasn't necessary for lower grades. I was planning on purchasing the integer block kit and student pack for each unit (Alpha & Gamma). How critical is the teacher guide and dvd per these levels? Thanks Heather
Thank you for the in depth review! We currently use Saxon and wanted to know how they compare. We homeschool many different age levels and were thinking the videos would help.
I use that cericulum at school
Can you please do a review on the grapevine curriculum and what you think is helpful to purchase in this set. Also, how are you liking the Picture Smart Bible curriculum?
MyLife Plus3 Yes, it's on my list o do! :)
We are using your K4 program. I'm trying to figure out when I should start the "Primer" with your K4 or first grade level? It seems you used the Primer with your K4. I'm asking because you have some basic math within your program. We loved your "Letters of the Week"
I would start it with K4, then in first grade move to MUS Alpha.
@@erica_arndt Thank you so much!
Thanks .
I know this is an older video but this has been so helpful. I’m assuming it hasn’t changed much. Do you find that they transition well from the blocks to paper well? I’m not quite sure how my son learns just yet other than he does like creative play a ton and grasps concepts really easy so repeating can be boring for him. Any advice on starting this out as a second grader? Should I purchase the primary and the following one together? I have a pre k student too so I know he will use the beginner as time goes on. Thanks for sharing this.
Hi, yes transition from blocks to paper is fairly natural and as they progress they gradually stop needing the blocks. I would probably just start with Beta for your 2nd grader, but they do have a placement test on their website so you can see where you fall.
Hi Erica! I love your videos! I’m starting this program in Epsilon with my 7th trader to focus on the conceptual part of math. Do you think the digital manipulatives are fine for us or would you recommend the blocks?
We used the overlay fraction pieces for this unit, not the blocks.
Erica, my youngest is going into 3rd grade. This is our first year homeschooling. Unfortunately, he is testing on a 1st grade level in math. He still uses his fingers to count and is very dependent on number lines. I was considering placing him in math u see and starting in alpha. Do you think this is a good program for remediation?
great video!
Did you do the primer level and if so at what age? Have they always watched the videos themselves or did you start out watching the video and teaching them? Also, I know in your more recent videos that you have changed math curricula so do you still recommend this or if you were to do it over would you have gone with something else? I'm torn between a few but mainly math u see and Saxon
Yes, we started with Primer in kindergarten, then went to alpha for first grade
Thank you for this review. We started homeschooling this year and I want to try MUSee for my fourth and six graders next school year. How should I transition from traditional Math books to MUSee at this level?
You may want to have them take the placement test on the MUS website to see where to start.
Would you say that each level lasts an entire year? We just started homeschooling, and our 1st and 4th grader have been using Saxon Math at their charter school. I think this looks like a great program, but I'm struggling to understand how one skill (addition or multiplication) can encompass an entire year. And if you have to use multiple levels per year, it will get quite pricey.
+kelleykj Yes, each level lasts 1 year for us. They usually have 30 weeks worth of lessons plus several extra worksheets for each week. At the end of the year I pull out the extra sheets and we just review for the last couple of weeks.
Wow, this was so thorough, thank you!
I do have a question though, what is the iPad application called? I couldn't find it in an initial search in the app store
You can find it on their website, under E-Learning. It's called Math-U-See Manipulatives
thank you very much
Hi, Erica, I would like to know where did you get and what is the of the iPad application and how much did it cost you. This will be a great way to teach my three year old basic math skills. Thank you very much.
You can get the Math U See iPad app on their website www.mathusee.com
what level does a rising 2nd grader need. she's a fast learner but doesn't seem to want to know the place value concept or adding things like 78 t 74. doesn't want to put the 1 with the 7s.
+Tonya & Michael Asquith They have placement tests on their website so you might want to do that first. I would normally suggest starting with Beta, but that's subtraction and it assumes you've already been through multiple digit addition. So if she's struggling with that you might want to either start with Alpha so she can get good at adding place values, or at the very least work on some of their free worksheets over the summer, then start her with Beta next year. They have free printable sheets on their website, but the blocks and lessons help them understand place value. So it might be beneficial to start with Alpha before moving on. They're also really friendly! You can contact them and ask their opinion as well and they might have a better solution for you.
I have a sixth grader who still struggles with multiplication facts. We are currently on Teaching Textbooks doing fractions (multiplication/division). I would like to switch over to Math U See. I would love any input you might have on which curriculum you would suggest. My gut tells me to get the level she is on, and use the blocks to do extra work on her multiplication facts. Thanks in advance
The MUS website has a placement test you can take to decide what level to begin on.
About how long are the lessons? I think those would be too many worksheets for my kiddos. But I really like the way it is taught.
It depends on how you schedule it. For us, the first day is longer because we view the DVD lesson, plus do a worksheet. Then they do 1 worksheet on Tues and Wed. We also do a worksheet plus a test on Thursday so again we're doubling up.
So I would say about 10-15 min. for the video, then I usually give my kids about 30 to complete their worksheets, so I schedule 45min per day for math. Some days it takes all 45 min. some days it's less depending.
Oh ok. Thanks!
How do your kids stay focused during an assignment with the other kiddos asking questions while the others are trying to read the instructions or notes?
Good question, we have four kids and so I think they just naturally learn how to focus in the midst of noise. I do have some tips in this post on helping your child to focus as well that might be helpful: www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/blog/2010/02/ear-protection-for-peace.html
This review was so helpful! Thank you. :)
super helpful!! THank you!!
Can you tell me how long the DVD lessons tend to be on average?
They're only about 10-15 minutes.
This was a great video, I will be purchasing this for my kids and I wanted to know. My sons will be in 9 and 7 and my daughters will be in 1st and preschool, do you recommend they take the placement test first? My son that is going into the 9th is having a terrible time in math his in 8 in Abeka and doing 7th grade math and this program seems great for him and all my children.
Hi, yes I would recommend the placement test to see where to begin since they're a little bit older.
Hey! Do you know of a way I could get my hands on the wooden storage box? I cannot find it!
Hi Teresa,
I'm sorry I don't think they sell these anymore!
Thank you! This was so helpful. :)
Hi Erica! I hope you see this and can respond. ❤️I'm looking at Math u See for my oldest. I'm curious does the Algebra 1 review pre Algebra or just go straight into the Algebra 1 topics assuming the child had the pre algebra course?💕thanks!
There is a bit of review but if he's not strong on pre-algebra you might want to go over that. MUS has a placement test on their website, you might want to try that to see where to start.
My wife saw the blocks on this past. we really like the idea of them for our daughter with auditory processing disorder, but we can not find the wooden box/block holder. Can you send me a link? Thank you.
Hi Judd,
Unfortunately I think they stopped selling the wooden boxes, you might be able to find a used one on eBay or something. But they've moved to a plastic type tray.
Do they have an android app too or just ipad? We are in the middle of the primer with my five and a half year old. Don't think it's too easy for Kindergarten. It gives them a good foundation. I prefer mastery too. The spiral approach sometimes feel a bit like taking a four year old and teaching him English and Russian letters at the same time, with worksheets with both on the same page.
I believe it's currently just for apple devices, but that may change in the future.
Aw man. There are plenty of other, often free, apps we can use instead but it would have been nice. We just aren't apple people.
The video is dated 2015 but I can't find new or used supplies for anywhere close to the prices mentioned. Has MUS drastically increased its prices and popularity? Where can I find used blocks reasonably? Thanks!
I don't think prices have gone up that much, but they have updated curriculum so prices may have changed some.
where can you get the wooden tray from ?
Hi Merissa,
I'm sorry but this is an older box and they stopped selling them. They've moved to a plastic box now. I did get a plastic box with movable dividers from the bead/jewelry section at Michaels that works great for storing the blocks!
Where can I sell homeschool curriculum? I have some Math-U-See, Excellence for Writing, etc.
You can list it on my BUY/SELL/TRADE section, or eBay is a good option too.
community.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/c/buy-sell-trade/14
Have you always used math u see from the beginning of your Homeschooling years?
I started my very first year with Abeka and quickly changed to MUS the following year. We did try Saxon there for a few months at one point, but went right back to MUS :) So technically yes, we've used it since the beginning!
Did you feel the need to supplement anything other math along with MUS? How old is your oldest and what level is your oldest child on? Just wondering because I see ppl saying that they felt the need to supplement. I'm new my daughter is about to finish primer. Just trying to find guidance from experienced homeschool moms who have already walked the path.
where did you get this wooden container?! ive been trying to find it but no clue where to look.. we just got math u see primer.. also when you do lessons do u do 1 per day like lesson one do page 1a next day page 1b nedt 1c and so on?
They sent it to me, and you used to be able to get it from their website, however I believe they discontinued it and went to a plastic carrying case thing instead.
I wish the work sheets came in braille!
Love these type of videos! Please do IWE.
I have been looking for where to buy the block kit in the wooden case and can't find it anywhere on any website. It appears that the only block kit available from Math-U-See does not come in a wooden case or have the 2's, 3's, 4's, 6's, 7's 8's, or 9's. Only 1's, 5,'s 10's and 100's. Do you have a link to this product?
My blocks came in a cardboard box. The case was separate. I think you're talking about the expansion pack you need the starter kit. If you can't find it it's probably listed with their primer kit.
I think they did get rid of the wooden box this year and now the blocks come in a large cardboard box with a plastic insert to separate the blocks.
How do you determine which level a kid is? My son seems to span 3 or 4 of them.
Hi Krista,
They have a placement test on the MUS website you can take to decide where the best place to start is. You may also want to contact them and talk with a representative who can help guide you as well if you have something specific that your son needs more help with.
Dang! This was crazy helpful! Thank YOU!!! :)
P.S. did you make that ChickChickaBoomBoom tree? Do you have a tutorial.. or did you purchase somewhere?
I found it here: www.amazon.com/Chicka-Boom-Alphabet-Tree/dp/B004ZAKG7S but there's also a wall bulletin version here: www.amazon.com/Palm-Tree-Bulletin-Board-Set/dp/B0019N0VJM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1424109260&sr=8-1&keywords=palm+tree+bulletin+board and I have downloadable letters on the "free printables" section of my blog for the letters.
ack! i didnt like the video chopped right where you werent finished with a sentence... ugh what did i miss! :P
there was one thats especially bad where i think you were saying something like "you want these unless...." or something? lOL :P
so i want to ask what you think. i was looking on the website and we did the placement and my 9 year old can go into gamma. HOWEVER< i dont feel like he "mastered" addition/subtraction. should i do the previous level and double year it or something?
I don't think you were missing anything critical LOL! Probably just poor editing on my part :) I'll try to do better.
If your son hasn't mastered Addition/Subtraction, you may want to review the Beta level first to review those concepts before moving to Gamma. You can certainly move faster through Beta if you like, or even maybe use the free download review worksheets from Beta until you feel like he's comfortable with it before moving on. I also like the free 5 minute math drill worksheets as well for drilling math facts. www.math-aids.com/Addition/Addition_Drills.html
sweet! thanks!
we have the math we had been using, singapore i think, with HOD. so we might fly through that, work on anything he struggles with and then start with gamma... but ill try those sheets too! :) awesome! thanks!
Hi Erica! How far have you went through the MUS curriculum? Has your child received good math test scores on standardized tests?
Hi, we went through Algebra 2, my kids do well on standardized testing, but we decided to switch to Shormann math for upper high school because it's a bit more rigorous and more college preparatory.
This "colors" method would result conflicting to a child in the spectrum. Would get him used to these "patterns" and frustrated, later on, when the colors and the numbers woudln't "match" any more...
Yeah, no curriculum works for every single child. This is why these reviews are so helpful.
Hi, I am going to be homeschooling my son this coming school year and I'm interested in this particular math curriculum. My only concern is that he is coming from public school 3rd grade where he didn't grasp the math concepts but he was promoted to 4th grade in spite of that. So, if I use Math U See 4th grade curriculum, do you think he would be able to grasp the concepts enough to master 4th grade math? Or, should I start him on 3rd grade and then move him to 4th once he's mastered it?
Thanks
Hi Olaifa, I would suggest having him take the placement test on the MUS website. You might also ask a MUS representative as well, they're usually very helpful and informative! MUS teaches in a bit different order, so its possible he's lacking in certain areas and ahead in others. They can give you a better clue as to what grade is best to start him with.
+Erica Arndt Okay, thank you very much, I will do that.
How long are most of the lessons on the DVD? Is there kind of an average? I'm just curious if they would spend 20 minutes watching the lesson or an hour. Thank you!
They average about 15 minutes or so.
Thank you!
I think they are very short. 15 minutes seems like on the long end to me.
rest in piece right ear
does math u see have an android app?
I looked on their website, and I'm only seeing one in iTunes at this time.
ok thank you :D
Is this program common core? Is it a mastery or spiral curriculum? Thank you.
It is mastery and though it is not considered common core, they did update it to meet standards.
@@erica_arndt, The update they did back in 2012 was not to meet the common core standards, but to improve some of the instructional material to make it clearer, add more thorough step-by-step solutions, and add an extra enrichment page to each lesson in the student's workbook. But none of the lesson content or the methodology has ever changed over the last 20+ years.
Is it possible to get through more than one level in a school year?
There are approx. 30 weeks of instruction per level, so you could go faster, but you'd really be pushing it in my opinion :)
Thank you! We are using Saxon and I'm having a hard time explaining some of the concepts. So I feel some of the Math U See would be review.
Hello I’m in the uk.
So our school year groups seem different to your so finding it hard to know what age to start math u see.
My two children are
Age 7 born in March
Age 4 born in July
I would suggest taking their placement test to see where they recommend you start.
@JMDMBM would you start a 4 year old would the pri hard to start with. in the uk they they start full school at age 4.
Thank you for your help.
Test as being done and my 4 year old is starting on alpha and my 7 year old starting on gamma