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Because Shormann Math integrates geometry and algebra, teaches every concept on the newly redesigned PSAT and SAT, as well as the ACT, and CLEP College Algebra exam (3 college credits), I recommend switching to Shormann Algebra 1 as soon as possible.
Can I skip some of the lessons that were covered in CLE?
While there may be some review, Shormann Algebra 1 teaches 1/2 credit of geometry, computer math, technology applications (ie: Geometer's Sketchpad, spreadsheets, etc), and Algebra 1 level PSAT, SAT, and ACT concepts not taught in CLE Algebra 1. Therefore we recommend students start with Lesson 1 and do not skip any lessons. However, re-taking Algebra 1 using Shormann Math will take the same amount of time, or less, than if you continued with CLE's sequence of Geometry and Algebra 2.
Since CLE is not as rigorous, will Shormann Math be too hard for my student?
While it does teach to a higher standard, Shormann Math teaches in short "bite-sized" lessons that slowly build on each other to develop complex concepts that are easy to understand. Also, the intensity of the course is easily modified by limiting the amount of time the student spends on math each day. We call this the timed method. Basically, students work on math 4 or 5 days per week for 1 - 1.5 hours. At the end of this time, regardless of how much of the lesson is completed, have the student stop and pick up where they left off the next day. This ensures the student has the extra time, when needed, to slow down and grasp a concept. In our experience, using the timed method removes the drudgery of "math is going to take forever", allowing the student to focus on learning math, building retention and fluency, which in turn makes learning math faster and easier. Keep in mind, Shormann Algebra 1 earns 3 semesters of credits (1 credit of Algebra 1 and 1 credit of Geometry), it's okay to take three semesters to complete the course.
My student is struggling in. How do I know he won't struggle in Shormann Algebra 1?
Most students who struggle in Algebra 1 are usually struggling due to a lack of fluency in reducing and converting fractions, decimals, and percents. Similar to memorizing multiplication facts to learn long-division and fractions, memorizing specific fraction, decimal, and percent conversions makes learning algebra much easier. Unfortunately, most pre-algebra* and algebra curricula do not teach this. Therefore, Shormann Algebra 1 includes 10 five minute drill worksheets to develop fluency in these essential skills. This is another way Shormann Math makes achieving higher levels of learning faster and easier!
*Our pre-algebra course, DIVE/Saxon Math 8/7, does an excellent job of developing fluency in these skills and is recommended for all pre-algebra students.
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