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Overview
The short version
Teaching Textbooks is the program parents choose when they want math to just… happen. Your kid logs in, a friendly voice teaches the lesson on screen, they work the problems, and the app grades everything instantly. You check the gradebook.
For many families, especially busy ones or parents who are nervous about math, that’s a game changer. Kids tend to like it, work independently, and get help with hints and step-by-step solutions for every problem. The trade-off is that you have to stay engaged enough to notice what the app can’t.
The materials
What you actually get
App subscription
Lessons, practice and grading all happen in the app. Priced per student, per course.
Audiovisual lessons
Every lesson is taught on screen with examples.
Automatic grading
Answers are checked instantly, with a second try and hints.
Solution videos
A step-by-step explanation is available for every problem.
Parent gradebook
See scores, retries and progress for each kid.
Levels
Levels and where to start
- 1Elementary levelsGentle, colorful lessons for younger grades.
- 2Math 5, 6, 7Upper elementary and middle school.
- 3Pre-AlgebraThe bridge to algebra.
- 4Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2Core high school courses.
- 5PrecalculusThe final course.
Many families find Teaching Textbooks runs a little gentler than typical grade level, so kids often use the level above their grade. The free placement tests make this easy to decide.
Day to day
What a lesson looks like
- 01
Watch
A short on-screen lesson introducing the idea.
- 02
Practise
A few practice problems on the new concept.
- 03
Problem set
Problems on the new idea mixed with review, graded instantly.
- 04
Second chance
Wrong answers get a second try, then a solution video.
- 05
Parent check
You glance at the gradebook and talk about anything that went wrong.
Pros and cons
What we love, and what to watch out for
What we love
✓ Almost no teaching needed
Lessons, grading and explanations are all built in. Perfect for parents who don’t want to teach math.
✓ Kids like it
Friendly characters and instant feedback keep a lot of kids motivated.
✓ Instant help
Hints and a solution video for every problem mean kids aren’t stuck waiting for you.
✓ Great for big families
Kids can work at the same time on different levels without you splitting yourself in three.
Heads up
! Grading can hide gaps
A kid can get through a set with retries and hints without really understanding. Check the gradebook and ask them to explain.
! Gentler than grade level
Many families move up a level. Use the placement test rather than the grade.
! Screen time
It’s all on screen. Add a notebook so kids write out their working.
The verdict
Is Teaching Textbooks right for your family?
A great fit for
- ✓Parents who don’t want to teach math
- ✓Independent kids who like working on their own
- ✓Busy or larger families
- ✓Kids who benefit from instant feedback
Probably skip it if
- ×Families limiting screen time
- ×Kids who need hands-on learning
- ×Parents who want a rigorous, challenge-heavy program
Sounds like your kid? Download a free sample and try a lesson together.
See Teaching Textbooks on Official site ↗Money and tips
Cost, and how to use it well
A yearly subscription per student per course, in the mid range. There’s nothing to buy up front, but costs add up with several kids.
Use the placement test, and don’t be surprised if your kid lands a level above their grade.
Have kids work problems in a notebook, not just in their head.
Check the gradebook daily, especially the “second try” answers.
Once a week, ask your kid to teach you one thing from the lessons.
Try the free lessons before paying for a full year.
Try the sample. Watch your kid’s face. That’s the real review.
Other options
Alternatives to Teaching Textbooks
Want to see everything side by side? Our homeschool math curriculum comparison has all 13 programs, a finder and quick picks.
Questions
Teaching Textbooks FAQ
Is Teaching Textbooks a good homeschool math curriculum?
Yes, for families who want an independent, low-prep program. It teaches and grades on screen and suits parents who don’t want to teach math, as long as someone checks the gradebook regularly.
Is Teaching Textbooks behind grade level?
Many families find it a little gentler than typical grade level and choose the level above their kid’s grade. The free placement tests are the best guide.
Can kids do Teaching Textbooks on their own?
Most can. The app teaches, grades and explains. Parents should still check progress daily and talk through mistakes.
Is Teaching Textbooks spiral or mastery?
It’s mostly spiral, with daily problem sets that mix new topics with review of earlier ones.
Ready to try Teaching Textbooks?
Take the placement test, grab a sample lesson, and give it six to eight weeks before you judge it.
