Jacob's Math is a high school math curriculum created by Harold R. Jacobs. It uses fun methods, like cartoons and puzzles, to help students understand math concepts instead of just memorizing procedures.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 3.3 million students were homeschooled in the United States as of 2023, representing roughly 6% of the school-age population. 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.
What is jacob's math?
Jacob's Math is a unique high school math program by Harold R. Jacobs, an award-winning teacher. Launched in the 1970s, it’s still popular today. Instead of boring lessons, Jacobs uses cartoons, real-life examples, puzzles, and even poetry to spark interest in math. The idea is simple: when students grasp why math works, they learn better. For over 40 years, this approach has helped many students who thought they hated math actually come to enjoy it.
Available courses
The main Jacob's Math curriculum has two key courses. Elementary Algebra (grades 8-9) teaches first-year algebra through a fun rectangle-building method. Geometry: Seeing, Doing, Understanding (grades 10-11) is a best-seller used by almost a million students. There's also a third book, Mathematics: A Human Endeavor, designed for students who struggle with traditional math methods. After finishing Jacob's Algebra and Geometry, Jacobs suggests moving on to Foerster's Algebra and Trigonometry.
Teaching approach
Jacob's Math is different from standard curriculums. Each chapter encourages students to find patterns on their own rather than just memorizing steps. The text is written in a friendly tone, making it easy for students to read without needing help from a math-savvy parent. Exercises start with easy reviews and build up to tougher critical thinking challenges. Jacobs uses area models, like rectangle-building, to help make abstract ideas clearer.
Who it's best for
Jacob's Math works well for students who need to understand the 'why' before they can apply the 'how.' Visual learners appreciate the cartoons, diagrams, and area models. Students who feel anxious about math often find this friendly style less scary than regular textbooks. Independent learners will enjoy how the book talks directly to them. However, students who like straightforward, step-by-step instructions might find this approach a bit challenging at first. It's different, but it can be very effective for the right student.
The bottom line
If you’ve heard 'I hate math' more times than you can count, Jacob's Math is worth a look. Its engaging style and focus on concepts have turned many math-resistant students into confident learners over the years. Available through BetterSchool with full support materials, these courses may require some adjustment for students used to traditional textbooks. But that effort often leads to real understanding of math.
