TOS Review: Balance Math Algebra

I have always enjoyed Math myself, but teaching it to my children, who do not share my exuberance for the subject, has been a challenge.  My oldest son has been doing Pre-Algebra and is moving into Algebra, and so I have been searching for curriculums to make it palatable for both of us!

Balance Math Teaches Algebra, from The Critical Thinking Company, is a winner.  By showing opposite sides of each equation like they are on opposite sides of a scale, my very visual and hands-on learner is able to visualize how he needs to keep the equation balanced.  This makes missing number equations, and moving on into algebraic equations, easier to understand.  The "puzzle-like" feel of the book made Math class almost fun!

While I was assigned to review Balance Math Teaches Algebra, I was blessed to also receive Balance Math & More, Level 2, which was excellent preparation for the Algebra course.  Both are workbooks that will each serve as a long and complete unit, but not necessarily as a full-year course by themselves.  You could use a series of these as your complete Math curriculum, or use one as a supplement in an area where you need help.  When it comes to Math, we can use all the help we can get!

I highly recommend Balance Math Teaches Algebra for anyone who is introducing the concepts of Algebra, especially if your learner is very visual or needs very practical applications for learning.

Important Information


Product:  Balance Math Teaches Algebra from The Critical Thinking Company
Ages:  Grades 4-12+
Price:  $14.99 at The Critical Thinking Company

The Critical Thinking Company carries an entire award-winning core curriculum.  You can see all their products on their website.

Members of the TOS Review Crew reviewed several products from The Critical Thinking Company.  Find their reviews linked here.

Disclaimer:  I received a free copy of Balance Math Teaches Algebra in exchange for a fair review.  No other compensation was received, and all opinions are my own.