Art of Problem Solving

This is an outstanding math program for the math-gifted student. It is rigorous and oriented to the independent problem-solver. The Texts are student-directed, making them perfect for the independent learner or homeschooler. Based on the premise that students learn math best by solving problems – and preferably problems that they don’t already know how to solve - most sections begin by presenting problems and letting students intuit solutions before explaining ways to solve them.  Textual instruction, then, is given in the context of these problems, explaining how to best approach and solve them.  Throughout the text there are also special, blue-shaded boxes highlighting key concepts, important things to retain (like formulas), warnings for potential problem-solving pitfalls, side notes, and bogus solutions (these demonstrate misapplications). There are exercises at the end of most sections to see if the student can apply what’s been learned.  Review problems are found at the end of each chapter. The Solution Manuals contain complete solutions and explanations to all the exercises, review problems and challenge problems. It is best for students not to access these until they have made several attempts to solve the problems first. One motivating box in the text coaches, “If at first you don’t know how to solve a problem, don’t just stare at it. Experiment!” That pretty much sums up the philosophy of the course, encouraging children to become aggressive problem solvers. Students should start the introductory sequence with the Prealgebra book and continue through the series. If you are coming into this course from another curriculum, you will probably want to take a placement test to decide where to enter this program. The introduction and intermediate series together constitute a complete curriculum for outstanding math students in grades 6-12.