We've used Horizons all the way through, and I've been happy with how well my kids have done. I am SUPER disappointed with this level, though - we will not use it with our younger two. (And we might switch away from Horizons altogether.)
- The solutions aren't just printed small, they are in a light gray font with fuzzy edges. Even with a magnifying glass, very difficult to read.
- The word problems (which I've considered a strength in other levels) are poorly written, and sometimes require assumptions to be made without being given enough information. I don't want my kids being taught faulty logic.
- The explanations in the teacher's manual are lacking and sometimes confusing. They give the basics, but often, there are problems in the student's work with tricks and twists which are not explained. My math-loving son gets frustrated and down on himself when this happens. He thinks he is making mistakes, when really it's a concept that has not been taught or taught fully.
- What to do if you've bought this and are muddling through? Khan Academy's free online videos are a great resource. But also - it is completely ok to switch to a different program! I saw the problems with these books early on in our year, but wanted to recoup the money we'd wasted, and I was afraid of creating gaps in his learning. We pressed on. I see now it was at the expense of my son's love for math. I've had to put a lot of work in to revamp our year and renew his enjoyment. It's been painful for both of us.
The one positive thing I can say is that the algebra tiles are a great manipulative. I wish the teacher's guide had gone into more depth there, because there is so much more you can do with them!
Math can be fun and beautiful, and the younger levels of Horizons show that. But this level misses the mark entirely. My next child is doing Horizons 5 math now, and I think we will move to RightStart Math Level G, then H, then an Algebra I product. (I am so impressed with RightStart that I may move my youngest over, as well.)
Moral of the story - don't buy this just because it's the next step up the Horizons staircase, especially if you are not strong in math yourself. Research your options well, and hopefully you will be able to avoid the difficult year we've had.
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I like the way Horizons math is organized. I've used it for both of my kids 9 years apart. And I like being able to order the whole set at once too.
I found the review done on your website for Horizons math thorough and exactly what I was looking for.
Cathy Duffy review
I like the spiral approach of Horizons and wanted to continue it with my soon to be 7th grader.