Math U See (MUS) uses a complete mastery approach. I will outline their system for lower grades below:
Math-U-See Gamma is typically a good fit for a student entering third grade; to find the Math-U-See level that best fits your child you can try the placement test here. You're Going to Love This Multisensory, Manipulative-Based Curriculum! Math-U-See, Lititz, Pennsylvania. 50688 likes 360 talking about this. Math-U-See is a complete K-12 math curriculum focused on homeschool and small.
Level | Focus |
Alpha (1st grade) | Single-digit addition and subtraction. |
Beta (2nd grade) | Multi-digit addition and subtraction. |
Gamma (3rd grade) | Multiplication |
Delta (4th grade) | Division. |
Epsilon (5th grade) | Fractions. |
Zeta (6th grade) | Decimals and percents. |
Math Mammoth complete curriculum series is not as totally mastery-oriented as Math-U-See. My approach is a blend of some spiraling with mastery. Math Mammoth includes and develops SOME concepts over several grades (for example, the connection between addition and subtraction or the concept of place value), whereas some topics are taught with mastery approach (for example, addition facts or times tables).
An example: In Math-U-See, children learn multi-digit addition up to 5 digits in level 2 (Beta). In Math Mammoth, we find some easy two-digit addition problems in 1st grade, then two- and three-digit addition in 2nd grade, and lastly addition with bigger numbers in 3rd and 4th.
Here is another example concerning multiplication. MUS does single and multi-digit multiplication in level Gamma (about grade 3), which is indeed a good grade to study it. In Math Mammoth, the concept of multiplication is introduced in late 2nd grade. In 3rd grade, children learn single-digit multiplication AND division and get started with multi-digit multiplication. Lastly in 4th grade, there is a large section on multi-digit multiplication.
Another difference I can see from the scope and sequence documents is that geometry, measuring, money, and time concepts are scattered or intermixed between everything else in MUS. Instead, I have written complete sections (chapters) on each of those topics for the various grade levels.
Apparently metric units are introduced in level Zeta (6th grade). Math Mammoth introduces and uses them all the way from 1st grade.
Based on the documents and samples on the website, I am not sure if Math U See builds a unified and algebraic understanding of expressions involving many operations. MUS seems to concentrate on one operation at a time for a long time (about a year). Will this enable students to tackle word problems that use many operations or to understand the meaning of complex expressions such as 340 − 7 × 8?
In general, people praise the videos and the explanations presented in MUS (as you can see by reading reviews).
Of course, there is more to choosing a curriculum than just the content or the sequence. You need to consider the usability, 'likability', price, and such factors as well.
Disclaimer: I have not seen the curriculum. If you know better, can correct possible errors in this information, or otherwise have something to contribute to this page, feel free to contact me!
We love your math program it works really really well for both my children (one who is dyslexic and struggles with math). We homeschool and use 2 math programs consecutively (Math U See and Math Mammoth). Both go together quite well, explaining things the same way. Using 2 programs helps us to reinforce the basic concepts so they are firmly planted so that later when math becomes more complex they will have solid foundations on which to build on. Also your tricks that you offer along the way like adding with 8 and 9's has helped my kids save time. These little tricks are not offered in our other math program and we so appreciate them! Thank you for developing such an excellent program and providing it affordably!!
In case you are wondering, yes you may use my comments towards your advertising. I simply cannot praise the program enough and also that you let me retrieve my files after the expiration!
Thank You again!
Danielle Jensen
I'm a homeschooling mom who has taken my kids through MUS from primer to epsilon thus far, starting zeta in a couple of weeks. A comment on your assessment of MUS regarding algebraic equations and understanding many operations in one problem - you expressed concern that perhaps MUS does not do this. My experience is that is does and very well too. Although MUS has a module dedicated to pre-algebra and algebra, it introduces algebra from the get go in Alpha with letters as place holders and gradually builds on this throughout the program. We are at a point where by lesson 30 of Epsilon, which focuses on fractions, the child is doing problems that solve for y that look like this:
3/5y - 2 1/3 = 2/3
Also, while the program is strong on mastery it continues to review previously learned material throughout, building on concepts so that they are never forgotten. I have not used math mammoth, so I can't compare, but I do want to be sure that MUS is fully represented in the comparison given here.
Taryn
June 2014
Both Maria's (with the disclaimer) and Angela's assessments of MUS are right on target, and will be helpful to all who read.
From one who was incredibly confused when algebraic concepts were introduced to me in 9th grade, (how can a letter equal a number?), I have been pleased to be able to introduce and use such concepts EARLY in math and believe this to be one of the most important aspects of a elementary math curriculum: both MUS and MM do this.
And yes, MUS incorportates measurement and geometry throughout the levels, (we just did quarts/pints in GAMMA) but I can see the importance of a separate focus as well, as Math Mammoth does.
Also, MUS has sections that focus on time, but I believe the graphics of MM will aid the student to grasp the concept more readily--as well as the graphics on money. I also like the fact you can choose different currencies. We will be moving to Europe, so the ability to study the Euro will be most helpful in our preparation.
Personally, we have been using MUS and Singapore,as together both are strong curriculums, but after seeing MM, we are DEFinately incorporating Math Mammoth's Light-blue curriculum into our learning and I believe it will quickly become our main math curriculum for the reasons stated above, plus its ease of use/teachabiility, convenience (downloadable), cost effectiveness and well, because it looks FUN!
Lisa Brouse
January 11, 2011
'Based on the documents and samples on the website, I am not sure if Math U See builds a unified and algebraic understanding of expressions involving many operations. MUS seems to concentrate on one operation at a time for a long time (about a year). Will this enable students to tackle word problems that use many operations or to understand the meaning of complex expressions such as 340 − 7 × 8?'
I just wanted to state that I feel based on your available information you have given a fairly accurate summary of mathusee. I did want to address this concept. By no means am I a math expert. For the most part I wish at times (as I seem to mentally prefer spiral programs) the program covered time, money etc more extensively.
My dd started with Abeka math for K5 and 1st and made straight A's but had no real understanding of concepts learned. I switched to MUS and she started in Alpha. We are now working on Gamma. I have had my ups and downs with the program but feel I am understanding how it builds upon itself.
But back to the above quote and topic. The online worksheet generator is good but is not an all inclusive of what is available within the actual curriculum. The online worksheet generator does not cover word problems (at least not any I've ever gotten for extra review) but the workbooks do. It also will not generate worksheets for every lesson covered. ...
There are definitely problems which cover multiple operations (of course since we are only midway thru Gamma not one like your example yet). Solving for unknowns (early algebraic thought) is introduced in Alpha and continuously covered.
Mathusee has been great for my daughter and it works ok for my younger son but he prefers to use remnants of an Abeka workbook. So I have let him do worksheets from multiple places but his main curriculum is MUS. He loves the video and blocks but bores with worksheets (black and white and mostly the same problems each day).
I ended up at Math Mammoth as it was suggested as a supplement for those skills that seem to be lacking with MUS.
...
Angela Clark
- Click Category to Display Related Products
- Math-U-See Primer[5]
- Math-U-See Alpha[5]
- Math-U-See Beta[5]
- Math-U-See Gamma[5]
- Math-U-See Delta[4]
- Math-U-See Epsilon[5]
- Math-U-See Zeta[6]
- Math-U-See Pre-Algebra[6]
- Math-U-See Algebra 1[6]
- Math-U-See Geometry[2]
- Math-U-See Algebra 2[2]
- Math-U-See PreCalculus[2]
- Math-U-See Calculus[2]
We are excited to now offer this 'tried and true' homeschool favorite math program! It sets itself apart from other math curricula with its focus on creating effective problem solvers who understand the underlying concepts in math and can apply math to real life situations. Honestly, as an adult, how many of us wish we would have learned math in this manner?
Following a 3-step learning method: build, write, and say, Math U See is truly multisensory.
Each level offers DVD instruction for the parent/teacher and student, manipulatives (through Geometry level), and worksheets for mastery of math concepts evidenced by the students ability to teach the parent the concept by the end of the lesson. Because Math-U-See (MUS) is mastery-based, students may enter the program at any level depending on their concept proficiency. The authors have chosen to use the Greek alphabet to demonstrate the sequence of concepts taught rather than a grade level. It is highly recommended that all students (unless beginning with Primer) take a placement test (opens in new window) to ensure mastery of any previously taught concepts. Placement tests are now readily available at rainbowresource.mathusee.com/
Lessons follow a similar format. Watch the DVD lesson (parent first and then child/parent), work through lesson examples in the instruction manual together, and complete worksheets. Each lesson concludes with a test. Cumulative unit tests are scheduled regularly to assure students retain previous teaching. Each level concludes with a final test covering all concepts taught. These tests begin in Alpha, not Primer.
Lets explore the components necessary for success. Instructional DVDs are available in the Universal and Level Up Sets (more info on sets below). The DVDs provide parent-teachers an introduction to the MUS vision and methodology before transitioning to instructional lessons. Teaching lessons are designed to be viewed by the parent first, followed by the student and parent (or student only at the upper levels or as the student demonstrates the ability to view independently). Each teaching segment is 5-8 minutes in length and is taught in front of a group of students and parents, which you occasionally hear responding (or building with the manipulatives). The camera is focused on Mr. Demme, who explains and demonstrates the lessons on a large white board with magnetic manipulatives (or drawings). Lessons are clearly explained and easy to follow. Integral to the program, the DVDs provide much needed teaching support.
Also essential is the Math U See Instruction Manual.
This hardcover book provides a curriculum sequence and introductory 'how-to-use' information that outlines the MUS four-step teaching process: Prepare for the lesson, present the new topic, practice for mastery, and progress after mastery. Teaching instruction with example problems for each lesson, solutions for the worksheets and tests, and a helpful glossary and index are included. The instruction is not scripted but is clearly presented and easy to implement.
Demme Learning Consumable student worktexts
contain a mix of practice problems and word problems. Space is provided to work out the problems, but some students may prefer having access to 'scratch paper' to work problems, especially at the higher levels. The front of the student worktext includes space to record grades for worksheet pages and tests.
Demme Learning Consumable test booklets
are provided to evaluate student progress. Parents are encouraged to reteach previous lessons if the student does not do well. Mastery is the goal, and lessons build upon one another so that future success is dependent on students really knowing the previous concept.
Demme Learning Manipulatives Integer Block Set
Additional components include the Integer Block Set, a 133-piece manipulative blocks set that is used from Primer through Algebra 1. This is a set of plastic interlocking blocks with blocks in different colors designed to represent each number from one through ten (there is a hundred block as well). A Fraction Overlay Kit is utilized in the Epsilon course to teach fractions. This set is color-coordinated with the Integer Block Set to aid students in learning fractions. Beginning with Zeta and utilized through Algebra 1 is the Algebra/Decimal Insert Kit which is used with the Integer Block Kit to teach advanced decimal and algebra concepts. Finally, the optional Skip Count CD and Songbook is a suggested complement to the Primer through Gamma courses and will help your student learn their skip counting and addition facts. There are two versions of the songs on the CD, one with Christian lyrics and the other with the lyrics taken from science and literature. The Primer through Gamma Universal Kits include online access to the Skip Count Songs MP3s and songbook PDF. Please note, the online Skip Count MP3 includes the Science and Literature lyrics and not the Christian version.
Math U see Primer
Unlike the other levels, Primer, the entry level, is designed to provide a broad overview and introduction to various math topics which will be mastered in a later level. Teaching children that math is fun and leading them to love math is the goal at this level. With this big picture approach, this course lends itself to children who are beginning to recognize numbers but have not mastered counting to ten verbally or are unable to recognize the numbers 0 to 10. If your child is comfortable with both and is ready for formalized instruction, the Alpha Placement Test is recommended.
As mentioned, the elementary books are taught sequentially and are titled after the Greek alphabet: Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Epsilon and Zeta. Elementary lessons follow a similar pattern: video, parent-led instruction and student worktext activities (which include three practice worksheets, three systematic review worksheets and one additional activity called the application and enrichment page). The application and enrichment page contains topics not included in the lesson as well familiar concepts in a new format. It is suggested that if your child masters the lessons quickly, that you skip the additional practice sheets and move onto the review. Due to the mastery focus of the course, the amount of time to complete a lesson will vary. You may find it necessary to spend 2-3 weeks in one lesson, while others may be grasped quickly and completed in 2-3 days. Each course in the elementary series contains 30 lessons and will usually take about one year to complete, although with mastery as the goal, this is flexible. For students needing more practice, additional worksheets are available on the Math-U-See website.
Pre-Algebra through Calculus are the upper levels and the natural progression from the elementary series. Students may be able to begin the MUS sequence with Pre-Algebra or Algebra assuming they have mastered basic operations, fractions and decimals. There is a placement test available for the Pre-Algebra course, although the Algebra 1 Student worktext includes an Algebra Readiness Test prior to the start of lessons. At this level, there are two Instructional DVDs, with longer teaching segments (roughly 10-15 minutes per lesson). While Pre-Algebra continues to offer three practice worksheets, three systematic review worksheets and the application and enrichment page for each lesson, the higher levels switch things up a bit. Each lesson for the Algebra through Calculus courses contain two practice pages specific to the new concept and three systematic reviews. Following the systematic review is an honors lesson. Honors lessons may be completed at the completion of that lesson (in order) or you may choose to save all the honors lessons and use at the end of the course to go deeper. Honors lessons provide enrichment and challenge activities and are recommended for students who are considering math and science courses at the college level. Although titled honors, these lessons may not necessarily meet the requirements for an Honors level math course on a high school transcript. (As the MUS upper-level books are reprinted, the 'honors' pages will be retitled 'Application and Enrichment' to mirror the lower-level books. The content and solutions will be unchanged, but for a short transitional period, books within a level may be inconsistent in the name of these pages.) In the MUS sequence at the upper level, it is recommended that students take Geometry after Algebra 1 and before Algebra 2. Algebra 1 review has been added to the Geometry course to keep Algebra skills sharp. Beginning with Geometry, fewer MUS manipulatives are used and students will need a protractor, compass, and straight edge. PreCalculus students will need a protractor, ruler, and scientific calculator that can calculate square roots, trigonometric functions, logarithms, and natural log. There are 30-35 lessons in the upper level sequence books.
First-time users will want to purchase the correct level Universal Set.Universal sets include everything necessary for success at that level including manipulatives, the Instructor Manual and DVD, and consumable student worktext and test book (test book not available for Primer). Also included is 12-month access to the digital package for that level. Digital packages include streaming instruction videos (same content as DVDs) and online Instruction Manual, lesson solutions, and other online resources from any browser. Youll also have access to the MUS Digital Manipulatives, using Chrome or Safari browsers. Digital Packs do not include Student Workbook or Tests. Primer through Gamma digital packages include Skip Count Songs MP3 and PDF songbook. The upper level Universal Sets (Geometry through Calculus) no longer include manipulatives, but do provide everything necessary for their courses including: Instruction Manual with complete solutions, Instruction DVD, Student Workbook, Test book, and 12 months of access to the respective Digital package.
Families who own the necessary manipulatives can take advantage of the Level Up Sets which include the Instruction Manual, DVD, consumable student books and 12-month access to the Digital package. Consumable student materials (worktext and test book package), manipulatives and the Skip Count CD and Songbook are available separately as well. At the upper levels (Zeta through Algebra 1) there are two different Level Up sets available. The Level Up BASE set has been created for families that own the required Integer Block Kit and Algebra/Decimal Inserts. This set includes the Instruction manual with complete solutions, Instruction DVD, Student Workbook, Test book, and 12 months of access to the Digital Package. The Level UpSet is for families that own the Integer Block Kit but not the Algebra Decimal Inserts. The Level Up includes the Instruction Manual with complete solutions, Instruction DVD, Student Workbook, Test book, Algebra/Decimal Inserts, and 12 months of access to the Digital Pack. Available separately are the Student packs which include the student workbook and test booklet. Please note that all Math-U-See items on our website are U.S. editions.
Homeschool Math Mastery through Multisensory Instruction
As one who used this program in the early days of homeschooling, I appreciate many of the changes that have been made over the years. One of these is the systematic review as well as the additional level of challenge through the Application and Enrichment worksheets. Students who need additional review and practice will benefit from the focused practice that promotes mastery. Conversely, students who are math-gifted and require less practice to master the concept have the freedom to skip worksheets and move into the Application and Enrichment worksheet, unlike math programs with spiral review that become drudgery to exceptional math students. Additionally, the enhanced teacher explanations in the Instructor Manual and the DVD introduction will help parents feel prepared and more competent to teach math in this non-traditional, tactile way. It may be worth mentioning that if standardized testing is required by your state or organization, you may want to add a grade-specific workbook to ensure students are covering all that is required for the test. The final change I noted is that MUS has added additional topics to all levels to reflect current math standards.
As I look back on my children and our MUS experience, these improvements would have made the course easier to implement with Child B who enjoyed the hands-on approach while learning various approaches to solve equations. The philosophy of MUS was not as well-suited to Child A, who was my 'just show me the steps and let me do it,' 'I can memorize it through drill' child.
Keep in mind that using the mastery approach means that students spend more time on building solid foundational math skills, so it may appear that students are behind their peers in the early elementary years. They will catch up quickly and by upper middle school will be on target (if not ahead of) their peers. This is an excellent program for your hands-on student or one who wants to understand, really understand, the how and why of mathematics. There is much to appreciate in this unique program and it has tremendous potential for gifted, typical, or struggling learners. ~ Deanne
Please note that all Math-U-See items sold on our site are U.S. editions.
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![Math u see drill Math u see drill](/uploads/1/2/4/8/124897764/258367355.png)
Math-U-See Integer Block Kit Item #: 071166
Grades: PreK-12
Rainbow Price: $83.00
Grades: PreK-12
Rainbow Price: $83.00
Math-U-See Alpha Student Pack Item #: 071147
Grades: K-1
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up Sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Grades: K-1
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up Sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Math-U-See Gamma Student Pack Item #: 071162
Grades: 3-4
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Grades: 3-4
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Math-U-See Beta Student Pack Item #: 071150
Grades: 2-3
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Grades: 2-3
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Math-U-See Alpha Universal Set Item #: 071148
Grades: K-1
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $159.00
Grades: K-1
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $159.00
Math-U-See Delta Student Pack Item #: 071155
Grades: 4-5
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Grades: 4-5
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Math-U-See Primer Universal Set Item #: 071175
Grades: PreK-K
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $136.00
Grades: PreK-K
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $136.00
Math-U-See Primer Student Text Item #: 071174
Grades: PreK-K
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $34.00
Grades: PreK-K
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $34.00
Math-U-See Gamma Level Up Set Item #: 071161
Grades: 3-4
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Grades: 3-4
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
![See See](https://www.sonlight.com/images/products/MUSK-l.jpg)
Math-U-See Beta Level Up Set Item #: 071149
Grades: 2-3
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Grades: 2-3
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Math-U-See Alpha Level Up Set Item #: 071146
Grades: K-1
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Grades: K-1
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Math-U-See Epsilon Universal Set Item #: 071159
Grades: 5-6
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $135.00
Grades: 5-6
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $135.00
Math-U-See Pre-Algebra Student Pack Item #: 071169
Grades: 7-8
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $43.00
Grades: 7-8
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $43.00
Math-U-See Epsilon Student Pack Item #: 071158
Grades: 5-6
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Grades: 5-6
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Math-U-See Delta Level Up Set Item #: 071154
Grades: 4-5
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Grades: 4-5
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $88.00
Math-U-See Fraction Overlay Kit Item #: 071160
Grades: 5-6
Rainbow Price: $49.00
Grades: 5-6
Rainbow Price: $49.00
Math-U-See Geometry Universal Set Item #: 071165
Grades: 9-10
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $96.00
Grades: 9-10
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $96.00
Math-U-See Beta Universal Set Item #: 071151
Grades: 2-3
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $159.00
Grades: 2-3
This item is ineligible for return unless returned complete.
Rainbow Price: $159.00
Math-U-See Zeta Student Pack Item #: 071179
Grades: 6-7
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Grades: 6-7
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $42.00
Math-U-See Skip Count CD And Book Item #: 071176
Grades: PreK-4
Rainbow Price: $11.00
Grades: PreK-4
Rainbow Price: $11.00
Math-U-See Algebra 1 Student Pack Item #: 071141
Grades: 8-9
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $43.00
Grades: 8-9
Teacher materials are necessary to use the student materials
and these are sold in Universal or Level Up sets only.
Rainbow Price: $43.00
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