Complete Math Curriculum Comparison: Saxon vs. Math-U-See vs. Teaching Textbooks vs. Beast Academy

Choosing the right math curriculum can make or break your homeschool experience. After using multiple programs with different children, here's my comprehensive comparison of four popular math curricula to help you make the best choice for your family.

Overview of Each Program

Saxon Math

Saxon Math uses an incremental approach where new concepts are introduced gradually and continuously reviewed. It is known for its spiral method and emphasis on mental math skills.

Math-U-See

A manipulative-based program that uses concrete, visual, and abstract learning. Features DVD instruction and systematic progression through mathematical concepts.

Teaching Textbooks

Computer-based math program with automated grading and step-by-step solutions. Combines textbook learning with interactive software.

Beast Academy

Advanced math program from Art of Problem Solving designed for gifted learners. Uses comic book format and a challenging problem-solving approach.

Detailed Comparison

Teaching Style & Approach

Saxon: Independent learning with minimal parent involvement. Incremental lessons build on previous concepts daily.

Math-U-See: Parent-led instruction using manipulatives. Mastery-based approach focusing on understanding before moving forward.

Teaching Textbooks: Self-teaching with computer instruction. Students can work independently with built-in help features.

Beast Academy: Discovery-based learning through problem-solving. Requires an engaged parent or a mathematically confident student.

Grade Levels & Scope

Saxon: K-12 complete program. Algebra 1/2, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Advanced Math, and Calculus for high school.

Math-U-See: K-12 program. Primer through Pre-Calculus with consistent methodology throughout.

Teaching Textbooks: Grades 3-12. Focuses on middle and high school levels with excellent algebra and geometry courses.

Beast Academy: Grades 2-5 currently. Designed as preparation for advanced middle and high school mathematics.

Cost Comparison

Saxon: $80-120 per level (textbook + answer key + tests). Most economical for multiple children.

Math-U-See: $150-200 per level (instruction pack + student book + manipulatives). Manipulatives are reusable for siblings.

Teaching Textbooks: $120-150 per level. A software license allows multiple family members, but may need updates.

Beast Academy: $60-80 per level (guide + practice books). Four books per grade level are required.

Time Investment

Saxon: 45-60 minutes daily. Minimal parent prep time required.

Math-U-See: 30-45 minutes daily, plus parent prep time for lessons—more intensive parent involvement.

Teaching Textbooks: 30-60 minutes daily. Virtually no parent prep time needed.

Beast Academy: 45-90 minutes daily. Significant parent involvement and mathematical confidence are required.

Pros and Cons

Saxon Math

Pros: Excellent for building computational fluency, prepares students well for standardized tests, minimal parent teaching required, and comprehensive scope and sequence.

Cons: Can be repetitive, limited conceptual explanations, not ideal for students who need visual learning, and homework can be lengthy.

Math-U-See

Pros: Excellent for visual and kinesthetic learners, builds strong conceptual understanding, manipulatives make abstract concepts concrete, and a mastery-based approach.

Cons: Requires significant parent involvement, may move at a slower pace for advanced students, and manipulatives can be distracting for some children.

Teaching Textbooks

Pros: Excellent for independent learners, automatic grading saves time, step-by-step solutions help struggling students, and it is suitable for families with multiple children.

Cons: Requires computer access, can become dependent on technology, limited hands-on learning, may not prepare for all standardized tests.

Beast Academy

Pros: Excellent for gifted students, develops problem-solving skills, engaging comic book format, and builds mathematical thinking.

Cons: Very challenging for average students, requires a mathematically confident parent, limited grade levels available, can be frustrating for struggling learners.

Best Fit Recommendations

Choose Saxon if:

You want a traditional, comprehensive program that builds computational skills and prepares for standardized tests with minimal parent involvement.

Choose Math-U-See if:

Your child is a visual or kinesthetic learner who needs to understand concepts before memorizing procedures, and you're comfortable teaching math.

Choose Teaching Textbooks if:

You want an independent program that provides immediate feedback and step-by-step help, especially for middle and high school students.

Choose Beast Academy if:

Your child is mathematically gifted and enjoys challenging problems, and you're comfortable with advanced mathematical concepts.

Final Thoughts

The best math curriculum is the one that matches your child's learning style, your teaching confidence, and your family's educational goals. Consider starting with sample lessons or placement tests to determine the best fit.

Remember that you can always switch programs if one isn't working, and many families successfully combine elements from different curricula to create a customized approach.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These curriculum recommendations are based on personal experience using each program with multiple children over several years.