Ladies,
We are currently underway with Videotext Algebra with my oldest son and are really liking it so far. However, we will have to go much further into the program before making a firm decision on whether to recommend it.
Videotext has finished testing a Beta version for an online option of the Algebra I and II program and is in Beta testing for the Geometry/Trig. portions too. This makes Videotext much more affordable, as the cost is half the price of the current hard copy/DVD's.
We did order the hard copy/DVD's for Videotext, as the program was still in Beta testing when we ordered. The program was easy to open-and-use and made more sense to me once I had it in hand. The sampler was good, but the papers were a bit hard to sort out. Once we had the actual program in hand, the books for the various components were easy to figure out.
We are finding the program easy-to-use and the instruction to be straight-forward. I will admit that it is taking time for me to watch the lessons with my son and to correct the quizzes, but the lessons are short (5-8 minutes). I also am choosing to make sure I do it with him, so I will know it for my next kiddos in line (as 8arrows mentioned earlier in this thread). I think this is an important thing to point out, as no matter which math program you use it will be important to be involved in the higher level math with the child.
The presentation/lecture notes are so helpful with Videotext, especially if I would happen not to have time to watch a lesson with my son.
The teaching is very well illustrated on the DVD and taking a quiz each day ensures the child knows the material prior to progressing, which is a missing component in many programs. The material within Module A of Videotext is challenging, as it is an overview of all skills needed for Algebra (in essence a rigorous pre-algebra course). So, it's important to go slowly through the first module and make sure your child understands.
We will keep you posted as we journey.
As far as Life of Fred goes, I find it to be an interesting read and the math explanations to be fairly good overall. However, I feel it is better as a supplementary program rather than as the spine for math. This is because, from my perspective, it doesn't seem to give the parent the guided help that is needed to jump in and help the child if the child is floundering with a concept. I've also felt some of the content throughout the series is not as God-honoring as I'd like to see, even though the more blatant parts have been changed to be a bit more conservative. I do think the stories are funny and interesting and that kiddos will be entertained while doing math that way. I just wouldn't be comfortable with it as my only upper level math program, so we've chosen not to use it with our own kiddos.
Blessings,
Carrie
