Is my student ready for algebra?

We OFTEN get questioned about which course is the appropriate path as students are nearing algebra. For details and access to an assessment test, see Algebra Readiness Exam.

Which calculator? Need a fast answer?

If you do not plan to take the ACT buy a TI-89. (TI-89 is allowed on the SAT.)

If you do plan to take the ACT buy a TI-83 Plus. (TI-89 is not allowed on the ACT.)
<For more see Which calculator do I need?>

The Path to College

There are many articles written about how to get your high school student into college. Whether written for homeschoolers, or for students in the public and private school systems, the articles often address the same issues from the perspective of being a student. However, the question many parents and students should be asking is, "How do colleges view you?" By shifting our perspective and putting ourselves in the position of the college, we can gain some unique insights. <See full article at Crosswalk.com>

How to Evaluate Math Textbooks

 Ever needed to determine if a textbook or video program contains all the right information needed in a course? Use this guide to help. <more at How to Evaluate Math Textbooks and Material>

The Math Problem

The US schools are weak in math - almost all of them regardless of public, private, or homeschool. The national weakness in math (and science - which is related) is a problem in itself are huge. Math and science are required for technological research, and research (like it or not) is required for national security. The fact is a majority of US university graduate students in technology areas are from other countries - many with less than stable political systems. Congress and agencies that deal with national security are well aware of the problem - but fixing it is another challenge. But what about homeschoolers? <more at The Math Problem >

Starting with God’s Word

The first basic question is “what do you teach in high school?” This may sound silly, with the obvious answer being to teach what your children will have to know to get into college. But let us back up a bit. One of the main reasons we homeschool is that biblically we (the parents) are being held responsible to God for our children’s education. So let us go back to the bible as the starting point of what to teach – God’s word.<more at Starting with God’s Word>

Being a Free Agent

OK, so the term “free agent” might seem to contradict the biblical view. Or does it? What do we mean a free agent? Let’s start with the typical American family. The father (and often mother) works 40+ hours per week to earn a living so they can provide for their children. In this providing they are often shaken by the tides of corporate America - downsizings, mergers, moves, pay cuts, pay raises, promotions, travel, etc.<more at How to be a Free Agent>