Denison Algebra is a math curriculum aimed at students who find math challenging. It's designed to build confidence and understanding through patient teaching and structured lessons.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. Studies show that homeschooled students are accepted to college at rates comparable to or higher than their traditionally schooled peers, and they tend to earn higher GPAs in their first year of college (Journal of College Admission, 2010).
What is denison algebra?
Denison Algebra is a friendly math program for students who struggle with math. Created by David Denison, a teacher with over 20 years of experience, this curriculum combines video lessons and physical textbooks. Instead of just giving lots of practice problems, Denison explains each step clearly. Many students believe they aren’t good at math, and this program aims to change that.
Available courses
Denison offers several courses: Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry. Each standard course lasts about 140 days. For students with learning challenges like ADHD or dyslexia, there are Success versions of Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. These cover about 70% of the standard material at a gentler pace, with shorter videos (10-15 minutes).
What's included
Each course package comes with online video lessons, a spiral-bound textbook, a complete solutions manual, online video solutions, a test booklet (with two test versions for each chapter), a parent guide, and a downloadable pacing guide. The two-test system is great: if a student has trouble with Test A, they can take Test B after some review. You can’t buy these parts separately.
Teaching approach
Denison's teaching is calm and patient. In the videos, he explains concepts step-by-step while writing in the textbook. This helps students see not just how to do problems, but also why methods work. Students take notes in their books while watching. They need to master each topic before moving on, unlike other programs that keep cycling through old material. Homework is kept manageable to avoid overwhelming students.
Who this works for
Denison Algebra is great for students who find math tough or have anxiety about it. It's not meant for advanced students or those who need rigorous prep for math-heavy college majors. Families have seen success with students who had given up on math or struggled with other programs. The focus on building confidence helps students believe they can learn.
The bottom line
Denison Algebra serves an important need: solid math prep for students who struggle. Instead of assuming all students learn the same way, Denison created a program that offers the support anxious students need. With clear explanations, reasonable practice, and second chances on tests, this program can help students who think they're not 'math people' succeed.
