By Pam Woodbury

Once the basics of mathematics have been taught, understood, and made second nature, it is time to move on to higher-level mathematics such as algebra and geometry.  While some students are ready for this step earlier than others, most students are ready for algebra by the ninth grade.  Before beginning your child in algebra, try to ensure that they have a strong working knowledge of fractions, decimals, and percents, and that they are capable of understanding abstract ideas.

Our favorite texts in this area are by Harold Jacobs.  Jacobs does a wonderful job of presenting the material with interesting and often times comical applications.  He then goes on to help the student understand the whys behind mathematics and not just the hows.  In this way, the student is better prepared for continued success in future mathematic studies.