[ High School and Self-Education Board ]
Posted by Tina in Ouray on 18:35 Sep 5
In Reply to: Dare I ask -- thoughts on UCSMP Math? posted by Christy B
Christy,
I wouldn't assume that there is something wrong with the UCSMP secondary series. We began using this series seven or eight years ago when a different math program wasn't serving us well. I've been happy with it, for the most part and plan on sticking with it. If I knew mathematics better, I might have some different ideas; but I don't.
My two pet peeves with it are:
1. I think its approach to geometry is weak. It's very "modern" in that sense, and is every bit as good as most of the other modern texts out there. It's just not at all classical, and I think that Euclidean geometry is fundamental to a classical education.
2. I find it frustrating to grade. The answers seem to be all over the place and hard for me to find sometimes.
I think that some people have shied away from the secondary series because the "Chicago Math" program for elementary math has a very poor reputation. They are two completely different programs, though. It is has also, in the past, been more difficult for home schoolers to purchase these texts. That could be why you don't hear as much about them, too.
I've taken three kids through the series, have two more working in it now, and one yet to begin Transitions. Two of my college kids are science majors; UCSMP has served them well. In fact, the college where they are studying looks very favorably upon its students who have worked through this series.
Tina in Ouray, CO