We had the opportunity to review the online program UnLock Geometry by UnLock Math.
Math is one of my favorite subjects. I almost majored in math when I was in college, but went in another direction. Despite that, my love of math has continued. Fortunately, my children also enjoy math. I know everyone does not have children like mine. Some parents may even have a dislike of math or just do not enjoy teaching it. If you have children like that or are a parent as I just described, there is no need to worry. It is UnLock Math to the rescue, literally!
Alesia Blackwood is a mother of three and was homeschooled (her husband is a homeschool graduate) until she returned to public school during high school. I love it when homeschool moms get it and create something that is really of value for homeschool parents. Along with her personal qualifications, she is certified through the Georgia Professional Standards Commission to teach middle to high school mathematics and is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers where she is certified in Intermediate and Senior Divisions Mathematics and Computer Science. Academically, she knows math.
Using UnLock Geometry was quite simple; log on and go. I gave River his access information and he was able to work through the lessons independently. I had River work through one lesson a few days a week after he completed his other general math. Since the UnLock Math lessons are not really long and are varied in exercises, it was a nice addition to his school day. There was no groaning when I told him he had an UnLock Math lesson to complete.
There are 15 units with daily lessons and review, as well as quizzes and tests. The lessons take River about 20 to 25 minutes to complete and are thorough. The program has a well-organized plan for each lesson.
I will admit, I have been trying not to have my children working on too many online resources for school, but after watching this video, I decided online for this subject may not be too bad. I really like Alesia Blackwood’s gentle presentation of the subject and every once in a while, she makes you laugh in the videos. I mean that in a good way. Yes, math is a serious subject, but it can also be fun.
River likes the Practice Problems that question him regarding the instruction from the video and the Challenge Yourself, which is a “big” question based on the instruction. He thought the questions were challenging; he loves to be challenged and it made him concentrate more on understanding the material, so he could get the answer right.
The reference notes at the end of each lesson provide a handy print-and-go review sheet for the student of what was covered in the lesson. It can also be viewed online, but I printed these after River completed his lessons and he looked over the notes as needed. I also had him review the unit reference notes before he took his final test for a unit.
I really like the challenge the student is presented in the work and the fact it does not take him hours to complete a lesson. The variety of exercises also makes learning fun. Having access, for the student and parent, to student progress is also helpful and can motivating for a student as he works through the material. I was able to easily see the answers he submitted to the questions and where, if at all, he needed more practice.
In UnLock Math, I see a program created by someone who loves the subject they teach and cares about the student learning the subject (ex: the time it took to create brief, but thorough videos that teach, and the way the lessons flow).
UnLock Geometry is a great possible add to River’s education plan for the new school year. I really like having a “live” instructor for the lessons. He is making progress through the material and I think he likes the sense of independence he is able to experience working through the material alone.
Availability
UnLock Geometry is available for $49 month or $299 per year.
Social Media Links
Facebook: https://facebook.com/UnLockMath Tag: @UnLockMath
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Hashtags: #hsreviews, #math, #homeschoolmath, #highschoolmath and #onlinemath
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