Math-U-See

Description

Discover Math-U-See, a proven mastery-based homeschool math curriculum for grades K-12 that builds deep conceptual understanding and real-life problem-solving skills. Created by Demme Learning, this multisensory math program uses hands-on manipulatives, clear video lessons, and flexible pacing to help students truly "see" math—perfect for visual, kinesthetic, or struggling learners.

Why Families Love Math-U-See Homeschool Math

  • Conceptual Mastery over Rote Learning: Focuses on "why" math works, creating confident problem solvers.
  • Multisensory Approach: Integrates Build-Write-Say method with iconic manipulatives.
  • Student-Paced: No grade-level pressure—master one concept before advancing.
  • Proven for all Learners: Ideal for gifted students, those with dyscalculia/dyslexia, or kids who are reluctant at math.

The Four-Step Mastery Approach

  1. Prepare for the lesson
  2. Present & explore the new concept” (hands-on with manipulatives)
  3. Practice for mastery
  4. Progress after mastery (the student can teach it back!)

Levels & Placement

Math-U-See is not tied to traditional grades. Use free placement tests to start at the right spot:

  • Primer: A fun introduction to spark math love (broad overview for young learners).
  • Elementary (Alpha to Zeta): Greek-letter levels build sequential skills (for example, Alpha covers addition/subtraction; Epsilon covers fractions).
  • Upper Levels: Includes Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, and more.

Program Components & Unique Multisensory Tools

  • Manipulatives: Integer Block Set (133 colorful pieces, for Primer through Algebra 1), Fraction Overlays (for the Epsilon level), Algebra/Decimal Inserts (for Zeta through Algebra 1).
  • Video Instruction: Engaging 5-15 minute lessons by founder Steve Demme and lifetime streaming via enhanced Digital Toolbox (virtual manipulatives included).
  • Instruction Manual: Features non-scripted guidance, examples, solutions, and a glossary.
  • Student Worktext: Includes consumable practice pages, word problems, systematic review, and enrichment. Test Booklets come bundled with the Student Workbook.
  • Optional: The Skip Count CD and Songbook is a suggested complement to the Primer through Gamma courses.
Products below with "Online Instruction w/ Video"
in their titles provide lifetime access and include streaming Instruction Videos, an online Instruction Manual, lesson solutions, and other online resources. You'll also have access to the Math-U-See Digital Manipulatives. Digital content does not include Student Workbook or Test content. 

Lesson Structure & Pacing

  • There are 30-35 lessons per level that take around 1 year to complete. Lessons are fully flexible due to the mastery approach, meaning they can take anywhere from days to weeks to finish.
  • Typical Flow: Watch video → Parent/child modeling → Independent practice → Tests (lesson/unit/final) starting at the Alpha level. The Primer level does not include tests.

Math-U-See remains a top-rated homeschool math curriculum for building lasting math confidence. Take the free placement test today and see where your child should start!

Important Note: Math-U-See is no longer available in Universal Sets or Level Up sets as of February 2025. Now components from each level are available separately, and we have also put together two sets for each level: one with manipulatives and one without manipulatives. DVDs are not automatically included in sets, but are still available for customers who prefer the DVD format. Sets now include Online Instruction with Video access, which has been enhanced. 

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.