Do terms like the “properties of operations” or “quadratic equations” stress you out? Or maybe you’re a math whiz but aren’t sure how to teach it in a homeschool setting to a young audience? If so, you’ve come to the right place. What may seem like a big challenge is actually a great opportunity to help your child develop confidence.
The middle school years are an ideal time for kids to learn that mastering new skills isn’t always easy, but that their persistence will pay off. With the right homeschool math curriculum and you by their side, they’ll not only master important math skills needed for high school, but also develop the kind of resilience that will serve them well in the future.
What Is a Homeschool Math Curriculum for Middle Schoolers?
Middle school math is likelya structured program of study for kids in 6 through 8th grades designed to bridge the concrete arithmetic of elementary school and the more abstract logic required for high school math. Ultimately, the goal is to prepare students for Algebra I in 9th grade or 8th grade for advanced students.
What math instruction can include
There is a lot of flexibility when learning math at home. The good news is that parentsdon’t have to stick to a set schedule or assign a specific number of problems for homework. If your child gets the concept after working through a couple of examples, there’s no need to wait around for others to catch up, and you’re able to move on at your student's preferred pace.
Middle school math curricula also support the use of manipulatives, which are physical objects that students work with to make abstract ideas more concrete. Traditional classrooms often leave manipulatives behind in elementary school, but when learning at home, they are commonly used to help students visualize complex concepts when learning in the Concrete-Pictoral-Abstract (CPA) approach. The learner first works with the objects (concrete), then draws a picture (pictorial), and then writes it out in mathematical language (abstract), like an equation.
How homeschool middle school math instruction differs from in-school instruction
The biggest difference between traditional middle school math and homeschool math programs is in the method of delivery. In a traditional classroom, the teacher explains a new concept with examples, the class works on examples together, and then they work with the material independently. This “I-do-we-do-you-do” model of instruction is fine as long as the student understands the new concept the first time around. In a regular classroom, the teacher has to move on to the next topic when most of the students have mastered it rather than provide individualized instruction catered to each student's understanding.
If your child struggles with new material at home, they can take the time they need to truly learn it. Likewise, if they breeze through new material, there’s no reason to have them complete numerous problems for a skill they’ve already mastered.
Also, parents don’t need to rely exclusively on direct instruction to teach new skills. You can use real-world applications that allow kids to discover concepts through an inquiry-based approach. Also, math is often integrated with other subject areas when learning at home, like history and science.
Are Homeschooled Middle Schoolers Required to Complete Math Credits or Classes?
Instead of credits, middle school math is structured around required subjects and instructional hours. Since rules differ from state to state, you’ll want to check out the legal requirements where you live.
Most states require that homeschool students learn a core set of subjects, but the type of math taught is up to the parent. Some states require a certain number of instructional hours logged over a minimum number of days, and some require standardized tests to showcase understanding.
Unlike traditional schools, where all 7th graders take 7th grade math, kids learning at home might take pre-algebra or business math. And when students get to 8th grade, there are multiple possibilities. Some students might cover pre-algebra, but other students may be able to earn high school credit for Algebra I or geometry.
Usually, credits are a high school concept, but this is one exception. If your child plans to attend a traditional high school in 9th grade, they may be required to take a placement test, so you’ll want to confirm this with your district.
Main Types of Homeschool Math Curricula for Middle Schoolers
There are four main types of homeschool math curricula for middle school students. Each is based on a different instructional approach.
- Spiral (traditional): This curriculum is highly structured and focuses on daily drill and practice and frequent review.
- Mastery: This curriculum focuses on one concept and covers everything about it (for example, fractions) before moving on. Manipulatives are a common feature.
- Self-paced (video): This is a digital curriculum in which the child watches a teacher give a video explanation of a concept and work sample problems. Then, the child submits answers to the program and receives digital feedback.
- Discovery: This is a narrative-based curriculum that involves “living books” and puzzle-based programs. It’s deeply conceptual and calls upon students to spend a lot of time on one difficult problem rather than lots of easy ones (Duffy 69-74).
Topics Covered in Homeschool Math Curricula for Middle Schoolers
The goal of middle school math is to prepare students for the more abstract concepts they will encounter in high school.
For 6th graders
At this age, students stop seeing numbers as isolated amounts and begin to see them in relationships. These are the pillars of 6th grade math:
- Proportional relationships: ratios, unit rates, and percentages
- The number system: division of fractions, multi-digit decimals, introductory integers, greatest common factor (GCF), and least common multiple (LCM)
- Algebra basics: variables, expressions, one-step equations, and the distributive property
- Geometry basics: area, surface area, volume, and irregular shapes
- Statistics and probability basics: mean, median, mode, range, interquartile range (IQR), histograms, box plots, and dot plots (Curriculum Focal Points 18)
For 7th graders
At this age, kids move from calculating to manipulating numbers. This curriculum covers several key areas:
- Proportional reasoning: constant of proportionality, graphing relationships, multi-step percentages
- The number system: integer operations, terminating and repeating decimals, and applications to debt, temperature, and elevation
- Expressions and equations: linear equations, two-step equations, and inequalities
- Geometry: scale drawings, circles, and angle relationships
- Statistics and probability: sampling, mean absolute deviation (MAD), and probability models (19)
For 8th graders
Students in 8th grade study either Pre-Algebra or Algebra 1, with the difference being in the level of depth and complexity.
Regardless, the concepts covered include:
- Linear equations: slope-intercept form, systems of equations, and functions
- The number system: irrational numbers, radicals, integer exponents, and scientific notation
- Geometry: the Pythagorean Theorem, transformations, and volume of curved shapes
- Statistics: scatter plots, line of best fit, and two-way tables (20)
For students who need additional support
Math is a challenge for some students. Galloping through the usual list of topics won’t help some learners develop the basic skills and number sense they need for future success. Luckily, homeschooling provides a great environment for taking a deep dive into the key concepts.
It’s best to focus on mastering foundational skills:
- Basic operations in complex scenarios: Using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to solve difficult problems will help students develop a strong foundation.
- Number sense and estimation: Having students work on estimating an answer before solving a problem helps them develop a sense of what’s mathematically reasonable.
- Visual and physical geometry: Hands-on measurements and coordinate mapping, even using a game like Battleship, can help students understand relationships.
- Life skills and consumer math: Functional math concepts like calculating change, understanding sales tax, and simple interest give kids practice with skills they need for real life (Wooden 9-14).
What You Should Look for in a Homeschool Math Curriculum for Middle School
To choose the best curriculum for you and your child, ask yourself these questions.
What instructional style do you prefer?
Do you want to use a “spiral” curriculum that keeps a steady momentum from one concept to the next? Or do you prefer a “mastery” curriculum where your child will master one topic before moving on?
Does the curriculum help students understand the logic behind the concepts?
You don’t just want explanations and examples. You want guidance in the reasoning behind the operations. Look for programs that provide visual models to help understand new concepts.
How much preparation do you want to do?
If math isn’t your thing or you don’t have time for extensive preparation, then you may prefer a more student-led curriculum. Video-based programs teach the skills that allow the parent to be a facilitator or coach. Text-heavy programs require strong reading comprehension skills for students to learn on their own.
Does the curriculum prepare the student for linear equations and functions? Do the 7th grade materials include negative integers and two-step equations? Do the 8th grade materials cover slope and the Pythagorean Theorem? These are needed to prepare students for most high school math curricula and programs.
How Math Class Can Fit Into Your Middle Schooler’s Homeschool Day
Planning your math instruction at home is directly related to the educational philosophy you want to guide your choices.
Here are some ways to fit this vital curriculum into your child’s schedule based on your priorities:
- Spiral approach: This model is highly structured and focuses on constant review. Therefore, plan a new lesson each day, but make 80% of the problems deal with previously covered topics and 20% based on the new material.
- Mastery approach: With this model, you stay on one topic (for example, multi-digit division) for as long as it takes for your child to master it. You might spend 20 minutes teaching it on Monday and then spend some time the next three days practicing the skills until it clicks.
- Self-paced video approach: This method allows the computer or video to do the teaching and grading. You can have your child log on as many days as you choose. They watch the lecture and then complete the problems. Then you review the automated grade reports and go back over difficult concepts (69-72).
How to Plan a Homeschool Math Curriculum for Middle Schoolers
Don’t worry, you don’t have to love coefficients or absolute value to teach math to your middle school child at home. All you need to do is follow these straightforward steps to implement a winning curriculum.
Step 1: Assess current level of mastery
Middle school is the perfect time to fill in any gaps before kids go on to Algebra I in high school. Choose a placement test to help you determine what your child knows well and what still needs work. Fortunately, many curriculum companies offer diagnostic tests online for free.
Step 2: Identify your approach
Based on these results, decide if your child learns best by continually reviewing previous concepts while learning new ones (spiral) or by concentrating on one complete topic at a time before moving forward (mastery).
Step 3: Determine the scope and sequence
Use the information in this article about the sequence of math topics usually appropriate for 6th, 7th, and 8th grades to plan which concepts you’ll cover when. Make adjustments based on the placement test results. For instance, your 7th grader might need to spend more time dividing fractions before moving into integer operations.
Step 4: Select a primary teaching format
Choose from video-led, textbook-based, or online approaches. Use the questions we’ve included here to make sure you find an approach that works for both you and your child.
Step 5: Supplement with real-world applications
Whenever you can, weave in consumer math topics, like making a budget, balancing a spending account, and computing sales tax. Kids at this age also love logic puzzles, which help them develop their stamina for problem-solving. There are even math board games that kids can play!
Step 6: Keep records and work samples
Log any placement test scores and the chapters or modules your child completes. As well, have your child compile a portfolio of samples of work that demonstrates how they thought through problems to their solutions.
Popular Homeschool Math Curricula for Middle Schoolers
Still a little unsure about the best path forward? No need to be nervous, we’ve got your back! There are lots of homeschool math curriculum materials available.
Outschool’s online classical curricula and classes
Outschool provides a vast array of online classes designed specifically for learning middle school math at home. Some of their classes meet online twice each week for the entire year and cover the full grade level curriculum.
Many parents like to anchor their math instruction with these classes and then provide their own practice activities on other days of the week. Outschool also offers shorter classes focused on specific skill areas, which allows parents to choose between small group sessions and one-on-one tutoring. There are also options for live online class meetings and self-paced modules. Parents appreciate the variety of offerings, the ability to mix and match based on their child’s needs, and the professional educators who teach the classes.
Traditional/spiral
This curriculum is known as the “standard instructional model” because it’s the closest to the regular classroom experience. It provides an all-in-one boxed set of textbooks and workbooks and organizes the instruction in the “spiral” approach we’ve discussed.
Inquiry-based/mastery
This curriculum features topical modules, which are books that focus on one subject, like square roots, which promote mastery.
Self-paced computer instruction
This curriculum is video-based, and the program grades the child’s work in the moment, providing immediate feedback.
Project-based learning
Instead of a single book, this curriculum usually includes a set of project kits or integrated units. The parent uses the guides to coach their child through real-world applications.
Popular Homeschool Math Classes for Middle Schoolers Who Need Additional Support
When kids struggle with math, a common problem is a mismatch between the curriculum’s approach or delivery methods and the child’s needs and learning style. Fortunately, there are curricula available that specifically target kids who need more support.
Outschool’s online tutoring
Sometimes, the only thing that can get a child to the mathematical finish line is one-on-one tutoring with a professional who truly knows how to explain difficult concepts in a way that kids can understand them. Outschool provides lots of options for getting this kind of targeted support. Parents appreciate the flexibility of choosing 25-, 30-, 45-, or 50-minute sessions on different days at different times with a variety of teachers.
Concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) curriculum
This approach has kids first use physical objects, then draw pictures, and then move to using numbers and symbols to communicate those concepts. The curriculum usually comes with a large set of physical objects or manipulatives and a manual for the parent.
Adaptive learning technology
This digital approach adjusts the difficulty of the problems in real time. For instance, if a child misses a ratio problem, the program goes back to provide a mini-lesson on that topic again. These are full online platforms but can be quite expensive (Gersten et al., 19-56).
Frequently Asked Questions: Homeschool Math Curricula for Middle Schoolers
It’s natural to have questions when you are preparing to implement a new homeschool curriculum. But that’s okay because we have answers to the most common ones!
How can you incorporate hands-on learning in homeschool math lessons for middle schoolers?
One strategy is using the concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) sequence we’ve discussed. Allowing students to manipulate an object and then draw it helps make abstract mathematical concepts concrete. Another tool is a simulation, like using stock trading to cover decimals, percentages, and interest (42-47).
How can you choose between in-person and video math lessons for your homeschooled middle schooler?
Making this decision comes down to three things:
- Your child’s emotional readiness: If they get easily discouraged or feel isolated, an in-person teacher can help by reading non-verbal cues, like a sigh or furrowed brow. If they worry about being seen making mistakes, then video instruction can provide a sense of safety.
- Your child’s preferred way to learn: If they are visual/auditory learners, then they are likely to do very well with video lessons. Kinesthetic learners, though, often prefer in-person instruction (Gersten et al. 42-51).
- Your capacity for instruction: If you enjoy math and have the time to prepare engaging lessons, then in-person may be the choice for you. But if not, video-based materials created by experts can be a lifesaver while still allowing you as the parent to supplement as needed.
Solving the Middle School Math Equation
The solution is clear when it comes to homeschool math instruction. Informed parents + high-quality materials = academic success. Just use the guidance provided here to weigh each curriculum variable in determining the best absolute value for your money. You’ll be glad you did.
Sources
“4 Important Considerations for Homeschooling: Middle School Years.” American Psychological Association, 2024, www.apa.org/topics/schools-classrooms/homeschooling-considerations/homeschooling-considerations-middle.pdf.
Binz, Lee. “Early High School Credits in Middle School.” The HomeScholar, 7 Nov. 2024, www.homehighschoolhelp.com/early-high-school-credits-in-middle-school/.
Curriculum Focal Points for Prekindergarten through Grade 8 Mathematics: A Quest for Coherence. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 2006.
Duffy, Cathy. 103 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum. Grove Publishing, 2022.
Gersten, Russell, et al. Assisting Students Struggling with Mathematics: Response to Intervention (RtI) for Elementary and Middle Schools. National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education, 2009.
“Manipulatives in the Mathematics Classroom.” National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 2023, www.nctm.org/Standards-and-Positions/Position-Statements/Manipulatives-in-the-Mathematics-Classroom/.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. “Principles to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All.” NCTM, 2014, www.nctm.org/Conferences-and-Professional-Development/Principles-to-Actions-Toolkit
Ray, Brian D. “Research Facts on Homeschooling.” National Home Education Research Institute, 1 Sept. 2024, www.nheri.org/research-facts-on-homeschooling/.
Woodin, Christopher. Multiplication and Division Facts for the Whole-to-Part, Visual Learner. Landmark Outreach, 2013.
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