No-Nonsense Algebra from Math Essentials: A TOS Crew Review

No-Nonsense Algebra from Math Essentials


Does Algebra make you want to cry? I'm getting to my 4th child, who has my math ability - and we are both in tears. But no more - we found a way to master Algebra with no more tears! No-Nonsense Algebra from Math Essentials is like having your own private algebra tutor 24/7. Especially important around here, since my "tutor" went to college last year...

This soft-cover, 275 page book is a complete system for teaching Algebra. Students can work independently through 10 chapters which include self-contained lessons for each topic covered. The topics build on each other, and algebra is presented in a simple, logical, step-by-step fashion. The chapters cover:

• Chapter 1: Necessary Tools for Algebra
• Chapter 2: Solving Equations
• Chapter 3: Graphing and Linear Equations
• Chapter 4: Solving and Graphing Inequalities
• Chapter 5: Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
• Chapter 6: Polynomials
• Chapter 7: Rational Expressions (Algebraic Fractions)
• Chapter 8: Radical Expressions and Geometry
• Chapter 9: Quadratic Equations
• Chapter 10: Algebra Word Problems

You can use this program to effectively teach Algebra, or as a supplement to reinforce and master essential skills. My tester is using this to help as supplement for her regular program, and I am using it a teacher tool for brushing up on concepts I have forgotten ;-) 

Each lesson contains an introduction and explanation of the topic. Written step-by-step examples are included along with helpful hints that teach important shortcuts and tips. Exercises with review sections give the student a chance to practice their skills. A comprehensive final exam is included as well.

The book also features a glossary of important information for student reference. Formulas, symbols, prime numbers, squares and fraction/decimal equivalents are great for student reference. Solutions for all problems are included for teacher reference.

Hands down our favorite part is the Free online video lessons that correspond with each lesson in the book. The author, Richard W. Fisher guides the student through each topic carefully, step-by-step in the video in a white board style.  

We decided to make this resource work best for us, we would pick and choose topics from the lessons that covered concepts my tester was struggling with.   
After watching the videos, my tester was able to work through the lessons.  Best of all - we didn't even cry!

This is a handy tool to have when you need help with Algebra and the college kid is away!  It's very flexible, affordable and easy to use.

See what other members of the Crew thought here

Algebra: A Complete Course by VideoText Interactive: A TOS Crew Review

Algebra: A Complete Course by VideoText Interactive

From their website:

"Algebra: A Complete Course by VideoText Interactive - An alternative approach to Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, or Algebra 2! There are 176 video lessons contained in 10 unit directories. The program covers Pre-Algebra, Algebra I and Algebra II, and is a firm foundation for students advancing to VideoText’s Geometry: A Complete Course, covering Geometry and Trigonometry."   Designed for the student ready for Pre-Algebra (my tester was in 8th grade.) 

Cost: ONLINE ALGEBRA Modules A-F: Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, and Algebra 2 - . $299  (Classic Print Version – $529.00)  

The Bentz Test Laboratory has several "math kids" and several "not so math kids".  Being a "not so math mom" - I was relieved that my oldest (a "math kid") allowed me to "abandon him" (yes, that's what HE says!) to self-teach math around fourth grade.

But, now - Tester number 2 - my first "not so math kid",  is ready for Algebra...  I however, am still not ready!  I need an Algebra teacher...FAST!

We were grateful for the opportunity to take a look at a new approach to Algebra - Algebra: A Complete Course .  Instead of the repetition of Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 - all Algebra is taught in logical, sequential order - focusing on the concepts and working toward mastery.

My tester has already trudged his way through Pre-Algebra, and was on the brink of starting Algebra when this God-send showed up.  You can set your own pace for the course - covering it in 1-3 years, depending on your student.

We used the Online Algebra (Modules A-F) - you get unlimited access for 3 years.  Great value if you have multiple children using it (the next couple of "not math kids" are coming soon...)  I downloaded the materials - Student Lessons w/Exercises, Quizzes, Course Notes and Instructor Guide (with the answers...YES, I NEED them!)

My tester logged in to watch a short, interactive video presentation for each lesson's concept.  He then completed a short quiz from the previous lesson's material, and worked the Exercise for the new concept. The Notes are readily available to use after he was logged out.  It was a great way for him to "refresh" the concept taught, as he worked the student exercise, if needed.

As I corrected his work, with the handy Instructor Guide,  I began to notice a new phenomenon occuring at Bentz Test Laboratory... he was getting the answers correct!  First try, without my "help"...  My tester diligently worked on a lesson a day (you could easily slow to 2 days per lesson - which we will be doing soon).  His quizzes were even better than his exercises.  I think I found our new Algebra teacher!

So, now for his comments:

• "I liked watching the video, but - the videos could use an update.  He's hard to hear, and his analogies don't make sense."
•  "The lessons were short.  They taught the concepts in a new way that I hadn't seen before.  That can be both good and bad."
• "I like that it teaches a concept straight through, and does it quicker than other math programs."

Here are a couple of my thoughts:

• The online program is worth the investment, especially for someone else to teach Algebra! 
• The materials were easy to use, easy to download. Very mom-friendly! 
• I do think the entire program - videos and PDF's could use a little "modernizing", they do seem a little "outdated".
• I liked the 2 versions of the Quiz for each lesson.  You can use them to go back for more review, if needed. 
• I'd recommend this program - one of the best approaches to Algebra I've seen.

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