Modern Curriculum Press (MCP) Math (1994 editions)

Modern Curriculum Press/Pearson Education

This is one of my 100 Top Picks!

See the complete review in 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum.

Modern Curriculum Press's Math series has been a staple in the homeschool market for many, many years. That's largely because student books are inexpensive and easy to use. And once students are able to read, they can do most of their work independently.

Teacher's editions are not needed for the first few grade levels, although they can be very helpful. New concepts can be taught easily from information in the student book. However, teacher's editions have a very nice two-page lay out that includes reduced reproductions of student pages. Surrounding student pages are lesson presentation suggestions including mental math activities, sometimes a hands-on activity, and other helpful information. Answers are overprinted on these "student pages."

This program teaches one concept at a time, then moves on to a new concept. There is some review but the minimal amount of review begins to be more of an issue by third or fourth grade level. (You might have students skip some problems in each lesson, then go back and use those for review.)

The scope and sequence is slower than most other programs.