Aleks Math

We decided to try Aleks Math, an online math program. I was able to get a free two month trial membership to try it out for both of my Scholars. All I can say is we like it a lot! We used Math-U-See in the past, which we loved in the lower math levels, but when we got up to Geometry the kids started having trouble with it. I'm not even sure why, but it was not working.

We are 6 weeks into our trial and I'm thankful we found it. The first step after creating a log in is to choose a math subject. Next, the system gives the student a pre-test. Once the pre-test is done, the system shows you how much of the curriculum for that subject you know and how much you need to master. The mastery is shown as a "Math Pie". We have focused on mastery for the past few years and I find it keeps the kids more motivated.

We apply Structure Time, not Content with Math (see other posts on this key). The time structured is 30 minutes a day for my Scholars. They can choose any subjects in the "Math Pie" to study, allowing for individual preference. The system automatically assigns review questions periodically in order to make sure the student has mastered the topic.

The downside is the cost! It is pretty expensive in my book. From the Aleks website it is $99 per 6 months per student or $19.99 a month. The cheapest we were able to find it is through Leadership Education Academy (LEA), which is $99 for a 12-month subscription per student until Nov. 29th. After that, the price increases to $109 per student. It does include a semester of math mentoring. If you live in Utah, you can also sign-up for this class tuition free through their charter school option. There is also a 3 payment option with LEA.

Personally, it is only worth it in the higher maths. Once my Scholars are up into Algebra and above, I am not savvy enough to teach these subjects. There are several math subjects to choose from and the student can switch to another subject at any time. They also have an SAT Math study class, which is helpful for those getting into college strictly on SAT scores.