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Geometry: A Fresh Approach (called Geometry from
here on) is a complete high-school geometry course. The student
book includes solutions to odd-numbered problems. Geometry is
intended to be a consumable worktext, but you could write your
answers on lined or graph paper to use the book for future students.
An even-numbered problem solution guide is also available. With
these two books, paper, and a pencil, your student will be ready
to tackle geometry. Algebra 1 is a prerequisite.
Geometry consists of 13 chapters and two appendices.
Lessons are written directly to the student; consequently, a parent
does not need to teach the lessons. Every chapter is made up of
several parts, and beginning in chapter 2 each chapter ends with
a mixed review. The mixed review could be used as a chapter test. Geometry does
not contain tests or final exams.
Appendix A reviews algebraic concepts and is a good starting point
for most students. Appendix B includes answers to the odd-numbered
problems.
Ms. Walters wrote Geometry, as well as Algebra 1 and Algebra
2, after years of providing one-on-one tutoring to students.
She used her knowledge of what students struggled with to write
an easy-to-use curriculum that will instruct students in what
they need to know. You won't find flashy colors, comics, or off-topic
word problems in Geometry - Ms. Walters does not ask
your student how he feels about the hypotenuse of triangle B
or any other unrelated questions. She sticks to the subject at
hand -- geometry.
I found the author's explanations to be thorough and complete,
making Geometry an excellent text for students who learn
well on their own. However, students who need more instruction
(i.e., video or direct teacher involvement) or who are easily frustrated
may not find this text is for them.
I like how Ms. Walters presents each lesson and how she starts
students using proofs in Chapter 1. Her "Direct and Indirect Proofs" lesson
contained enough explanation so that even I could understand it
(math is NOT my strong subject).
For future revisions, I hope that Ms. Walters will put all answers
into one solutions guide. I don't mind the odd problem solutions
remaining in the student book, but I really dislike having to go
back and forth to correct a lesson. This edition lacks a glossary
and an index, which are also things I'd like to see added into
future revision.
I wish I could say that my children loved this course. I don't
think that any geometry course would get that recommendation from
them. I think Geometry is a worthy addition to the selection
of curricula available to homeschoolers, and I think that it will
benefit many families.
Product review by Tina Rice, Contributing Writer, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine,
LLC, June 2011
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