Dr. Shormann’s interactive math curriculum checks off all
the boxes! Not to be confused with his Saxon DIVE/Compass tutorials, these math
courses are his own design. While incorporating many of the same elements as
Saxon Math, such as incremental development and continual review, Shormann
Math—available for Pre-Algebra through Calculus 2—has several features that
set it apart, including:
Biblical and historical insight into math
concepts
Video lessons (about 20 min each) that can be
paused and rewatched
Interactive homework with auto grading and
recording
20 problems per lesson (compared to Saxon’s 30)
Video solutions to explain missed problems
ACT, PSAT, SAT, and AP/CLEP test prep built into
lessons
Modern computer and technology topics woven in
Optional printable PDFs of lessons, teacher
guide, and solutions manual
Algebra 1 and 2 courses that also fulfill ½ of a
Geometry credit (compared to Saxon’s ¼ Geometry credit)
Free question and answer service with Dr.
Shormann
I love the built-in flexibility! Courses are set up on a
30-week schedule (except Pre-Algebra, which has 36 weeks), leaving 6 flex weeks
for catch up or review. It’s recommended to work 4-5 days per week for a set
amount of time (typically at least an hour) and then stop, picking up where you
left off the next time. Students should read through each lesson before
watching the video lecture (whiteboard with voiceover) and taking notes. Then,
complete the practice set by working out each problem on paper and entering the
answer online for instant feedback. If help is needed, two clickable links
offer similar practice problems and the related video lecture to re-teach
concepts. After completing the assignment, access to step-by-step video
solutions with audio explanations are available to ensure understanding of
missed problems. Still confused? Questions can be submitted to Dr. Shormann
himself by filling out an online form. After every 4 lessons, a 4-question quiz
is given and after every 25 lessons is a quarterly exam. Students get 4 tries
to get a problem correct with a 25% penalty each time, though parents have
flexibility with resetting grades and lessons. Courses qualify for honors
credits if completed in one school year and using the honors grade scale but
can also be used for standard credit.
After purchasing access for one child in the family, deeply
discounted sibling subscriptions can be purchased directly from the company any
time after (time extensions on courses are also very reasonably priced!). If
you’re wanting a college prep program that allows your student to work
independently, this is a great option!
These icons are designed to help you quickly understand and learn important information about our products.
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.
