Pre-Algebra for Visual Learners
Math: Ages 10 thru adult
Author: Alan Schuler
Publisher: Old Fashioned Products, Inc./MUGGINS! Math
For more information or to order: www.mugginsmath.com

Some of my family's favorite games are from the makers of Muggins! Math.  We have watched, as our boys have become proficient at mathematical reasoning as we played simple games like Knock Out and Muggins on a regular basis.  Imagine my excitement when I found out that Alan Schuler had created a program using creative manipulatives to teach pre-algebra concepts!

Pre-Algebra for Visual Learners is not a game but rather a course designed to be taken at the student's own pace.  The consumable workbook is visually appealing with clear illustrations and straightforward instruction written to the student.  Alan begins with an explanation of the difference between analytical, or left-brain thinkers and visual, or right-brain thinkers.  He explains that "while the analytical learner can follow rules (or steps) without understanding why the rule works, the visual learner cannot.  They must understand the why the rule works.  In other words, visual learners need to see the big picture to make sense of the rules."  Since Algebra is all about rules and steps to follow, it makes sense to expose your child to this program so they have a head start as they approach upper level math. The way the manipulatives are used in this program is amazing - by following the text and illustrations, the student can actually SEE what is really happening behind all of the number moving and operational signs changing!  Although designed for visual learners, I believe that tactile learners would benefit from this course as well.

There are seven lessons in Pre-Algebra for Visual Learners, each begins with a stated lesson objective, an assessment guideline (successful - 70% or greater - completion of the practice problems provided throughout the lesson), and key terms.  Each lesson then has several sections of instructions and practice problems.  Students are directed to use the manipulatives provided in the kit as they are reading the instructional material and again when doing the practice problems. One lesson can easily take several days or more to complete.  It is very important that students have a firm grasp of the concepts presented before moving on to the next lesson.  After all of the sections and practice problems have been completed for the lesson, there is a lesson review where key terms are defined and the lesson sections are summarized.  The author provides page notation beside each term and summary point so the student can quickly locate the correct section where the concept was explained.  An answer key for each practice set is included at the end of each lesson.  A separate test booklet with answer key is also provided in the kit.

I mentioned earlier that Pre-Algebra for Visual Learners is not a game but a math course.  However, included in the kit is a wipe-off version of their popular game, OPPS! with integer dice, directions and 80 game chips.  OPPS! was created to teach and reinforce pre-algebra concepts and is a great way to wrap up a math lesson and sharpen skills!  The whole program comes in a sturdy box, perfect for storage when the course and game are not in use. 

If you have a visual learner who is moving into more abstract math concepts (typically around age 10 or older), you will be doing him a great service by investing in this worthwhile and affordable program!

Making the Grade: A+
Cost: $29.95
Value for Your Homeschool Dollar: 10
Review provided by Cindy Prechtel, Editor