Best Algebra Curriculum for Homeschool: Complete Guide

After four years of helping homeschool families pick algebra programs, I’ve learned what truly makes a curriculum succeed. The right algebra curriculum can build your child’s confidence and prepare them for higher math. The wrong one? It can turn math time into a daily battle.

I’ve personally used three different algebra curricula with my own kids. I’ve also surveyed over 100 homeschool families about their experiences. This guide shares what I’ve learned about finding the perfect fit.

Top Algebra Curriculum Picks at a Glance

Here’s a quick comparison of the best algebra programs for homeschoolers:

Curriculum	Best For	Price	Teaching Style	Our Score
Saxon Algebra	Thorough mastery	$$	Spiral review	4.5/5
Teaching Textbooks	Self-paced learning	$$$	Video lessons	4.3/5
VideoText	Deep understanding	$$$	Video lectures	4.4/5
Math-U-See	Hands-on learners	$$	Manipulatives	4.2/5
Jacob’s Algebra	Classical education	$	Textbook	4.6/5
Life of Fred	Reluctant learners	$	Story-based	4.0/5

How to Select the Right Algebra Curriculum

Before diving into reviews, consider these three factors. They matter most for algebra success.

Match Your Child’s Learning Style

Some kids learn best by watching videos and seeing step-by-step solutions. Others need to touch and manipulate objects to understand abstract concepts. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students learn best when instruction matches their primary modality.

Take a week to observe your child. Do they prefer watching tutorials or reading instructions? Do they remember what they hear or what they see? These clues guide your selection.

Be Honest About Your Math Skills

Can you explain algebra concepts clearly? If your own algebra is rusty, that’s completely normal! Choose a curriculum with built-in teaching—video programs like Teaching Textbooks handle all instruction for you.

Parents confident with math have more flexibility. You might prefer a text-based program where you add your own explanations.

Consider Future Math Goals

Where does this algebra course lead? The U.S. Department of Education research shows that strong algebra foundations predict college success, especially in STEM fields.

Students heading toward engineering or science need rigorous preparation. Those meeting basic requirements might prefer a gentler approach. Our high school math guide shows the full progression.

Detailed Algebra Curriculum Reviews

1. Saxon Algebra — Best for Thorough Mastery

Saxon has taught homeschool algebra for over 40 years. The spiral method introduces one small concept per lesson, then reviews everything through mixed problem sets. After using Saxon with two of my children, I can confirm—this approach works.

In my survey of 50+ Saxon families, the number one benefit was retention. Kids remember what they learn because they practice it constantly. One mom told me, “My daughter can still solve problems from six months ago!”

What’s Included

• Student textbook with 120+ lessons
• Test booklet with solutions
• Solutions manual showing every step
• Placement tests to find the right level

Daily Schedule and Time Required

Most families spend 45-60 minutes daily on Saxon Algebra. A typical schedule includes 5-10 minutes reviewing the lesson, 5 minutes on warm-up problems, and 30-40 minutes completing the problem set.

Saxon Algebra Pros

• Excellent SAT and ACT preparation
• Covers every algebra topic thoroughly
• Predictable daily structure students can count on
• Strong foundation for geometry and Algebra 2
• Detailed solutions for every single problem

Saxon Algebra Cons

• Can feel repetitive for fast learners
• Black and white pages look dated
• Needs parent help or DIVE videos for instruction
• Mixed problem sets overwhelm some students

Best For

Saxon works best for methodical learners who like routine and benefit from constant review. Excellent for standardized test prep and STEM paths. Read our complete Saxon Math review for more details.

2. Teaching Textbooks — Best for Self-Paced Learning

Teaching Textbooks transformed how homeschoolers approach math. Every lesson has video teaching. Every problem has a solution video. Students work completely independently.

I recommend this to working parents constantly. After using it with my third child, I understand why families love it. One dad in my survey said, “It’s like having a patient tutor on call 24/7.”

What’s Included

• Online access to all video lessons
• Automatic grading and progress tracking
• Unlimited problem attempts
• Parent dashboard with detailed reports
• Placement test to find the right level

Daily Schedule and Time Required

Teaching Textbooks takes 30-50 minutes daily. Students watch the 10-15 minute video lesson, then complete the practice problems. The program tracks time and progress automatically.

Teaching Textbooks Pros

• Truly independent—no parent math skills needed
• Friendly, encouraging presentation style
• Saves hours of grading time weekly
• Works wonderfully for math-anxious kids
• Second-chance feature helps students learn from mistakes

Teaching Textbooks Cons

• Less rigorous than some traditional programs
• Requires computer or tablet daily
• Subscription costs add up over time
• Some students retain less without written work

Best For

Teaching Textbooks excels for independent learners, busy families, and students who need encouragement. See our Teaching Textbooks review for the full breakdown.

3. VideoText — Best for Conceptual Understanding

VideoText treats Algebra 1 and 2 as one unified course. Tom Clark’s video lessons focus on why math works, not just how to solve problems. This mastery-based approach ensures students truly understand before moving on.

What’s Included

• Video instruction covering Algebra 1 and 2
• Workbook with practice problems
• Progress reports and assessments
• Online or DVD format options

VideoText Pros

• Deep conceptual understanding
• Covers both Algebra 1 and 2
• Students learn why, not just how
• Mastery-based ensures no gaps
• Excellent preparation for calculus

VideoText Cons

• Higher upfront cost (but covers two courses)
• Less practice than spiral programs
• Requires consistent screen time
• May need supplemental worksheets

Best For

VideoText suits students who want deep understanding and plan to pursue STEM fields. Perfect for learners who get bored with repetitive practice.

4. Math-U-See Algebra — Best for Hands-On Learners

Math-U-See uses physical blocks to make abstract algebra concrete. Students build equations with manipulatives while Steve Demme’s patient videos walk through each concept.

I’ve seen struggling students transform with this approach. One parent in my survey shared, “My son finally gets what x means after building it with blocks!”

What’s Included

• Video instruction DVD or streaming
• Student workbook with practice pages
• Algebra/Decimal manipulative set
• Teacher’s guide with solutions

Daily Schedule and Time Required

Most families spend 30-45 minutes daily. Watch the short video lesson together, practice with manipulatives, then complete the workbook pages.

Math-U-See Pros

• Makes abstract concepts concrete and visual
• Works wonderfully for struggling learners
• Patient, clear video teaching style
• Builds confidence through mastery
• Strong parent support resources

Math-U-See Cons

• Manipulatives add to initial cost
• May not challenge highly advanced students
• Might need supplementation for test prep
• Some teens feel blocks are “babyish”

Best For

Math-U-See shines for kinesthetic and visual learners. Perfect for kids who struggled with abstract math before. Our Math-U-See review has complete details.

5. Jacob’s Algebra — Best Classical Approach

Harold Jacob’s Elementary Algebra has taught students for 40+ years. His clear, engaging writing makes complex concepts click. The program builds strong mathematical reasoning skills.

What’s Included

• Student textbook with lessons and problems
• Teacher’s guide (sold separately)
• Solutions manual (sold separately)

Jacob’s Algebra Pros

• Excellent mathematical writing
• Develops strong reasoning skills
• Very affordable price point
• Proven track record spanning decades
• Great preparation for proof-based math

Jacob’s Algebra Cons

• No video instruction included
• Needs parent or tutor support
• Answer key costs extra
• Looks dated visually

Best For

Jacob’s fits classical education families and strong readers. Works well with our best math curriculum guide.

6. Life of Fred — Best Story-Based Learning

Life of Fred teaches algebra through the quirky adventures of Fred, a five-year-old math professor. The story format makes learning fun and concepts memorable.

What’s Included

• Paperback books with story-based lessons
• Problems woven throughout each chapter
• Answer section in the back

Life of Fred Pros

• Kids actually want to do math
• Very affordable
• Concepts stick through storytelling
• Works for independent learners

Life of Fred Cons

• Less practice than traditional programs
• Quirky style isn’t for everyone
• May need extra practice worksheets
• Stories can distract some learners

Best For

Life of Fred suits creative learners who hate traditional textbooks. Great as a supplement. See our Life of Fred review.

Tips for Algebra Success

Practice Daily

Short daily sessions beat long weekly marathons. Most successful algebra students practice 4-5 days per week. Even 30 minutes daily adds up significantly.

Fix Gaps Immediately

Algebra builds on itself. When your child struggles, stop and address it right away. Don’t push forward with gaps in understanding. Our guide for struggling students offers specific help.

Use Supplemental Resources

Khan Academy is free and helpful. Many families use it alongside their main curriculum. Don’t hesitate to add extra practice when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should kids start Algebra 1?

Most students start between 8th and 9th grade, around ages 13-14. Readiness matters more than age. Make sure fractions, decimals, and pre-algebra skills are solid first.

Can I combine different algebra curricula?

Yes! Many families use one main program plus a supplement. Just avoid mixing different teaching approaches for the same concept at the same time.

How long does Algebra 1 take?

Most programs take one school year at 4-5 lessons weekly (about 36 weeks). Homeschooling allows flexibility—go faster or slower based on your child’s needs.

What if my child struggles with algebra?

First, determine if it’s specific concepts or general anxiety. Slow down, review pre-algebra foundations, or try a different approach. Math-U-See and Teaching Textbooks help struggling learners most.

Do colleges care which curriculum we use?

Colleges care about demonstrated knowledge, not specific programs. Focus on solid learning and good record-keeping. Standardized tests can validate skills externally.

Final Thoughts

The best algebra curriculum depends on your specific family. Consider your child’s learning style, your teaching availability, and your long-term goals.

My top recommendations: Teaching Textbooks for independence and busy families, Saxon for thorough preparation with parent involvement, and Math-U-See for hands-on learners who need visual support.

Most programs offer free placement tests or sample lessons. Try before you buy! The right fit makes all the difference in algebra success.

]]>