Have you ever wanted an in-home tutor for your children who are using Saxon math curriculum but the cost was totally out of your budget? Do you ever spend a lot of time trying to figure out a math problem and then try to explain it, only to have to tell your child to wait until their father gets home? We have been totally frustrated in the past, but no longer! These DIVE CD's were just the answer for us. The instructor, Dr. David Shormann will take your child through each chapter by explaining the new concept while going through a few practice problems on a computer "chalkboard." He is not physically shown on the CD, however; all of his computations are clearly laid out step by step. With his verbal guidance and chalkboard presentations, your child will be better able to then proceed with his chapter assignments on his own, or review the CD again if needed. If they have forgotten a concept, they can always go back to that lesson and listen to Dr. Shormann explain it again.

My 13 year old son using Saxon Algebra ½ was struggling to understand the new concepts, and I was no help at all. But after getting this personal "in-home tutor", he is doing very well on his own. My son had this to say, "What I like about the Algebra ½ CD is that he explains everything very clearly. One time I got confused, but I just started the lesson over and was able to pick up what I had missed before. I would recommend it to anyone using Saxon math."

This company offers many CD's which coordinate with Saxon books including: Math 5/4, 6/5, 7/6,8/7, Algebra 1/2, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Advanced Mathematics, Calculus, Physics, and SAT Math Prep CD's. DIVE Science includes: ICP (aka physical science or intro chem/physics), Biology, andChemistry. You can even choose CD's from previous editions if you do not have the most up to date edition of the curriculum. Check out what is listed on their website at www.diveintomath.com

System Requirements: Windows 95 or greater, speakers (and a printer for DIVE Science). CDs are also available for MAC computers.

I love the fact that Mr. Shormann is a strong Christian and presents the gospel on each CD, as well as on the website. He also believes in a literal six-day creation and teaches his Science CD's from that viewpoint. He is very well qualified professionally, having taught over 6,000 hours and has extensive credentials listed on the website. He even offers to be available should you or your children have any questions.

It has been extremely reassuring knowing that this very professional Dr. is walking my child through each lesson and that that he is gaining and retaining new math skills. The worry I have had in the past about math is gone. I now have confidence that my children are receiving a solid mathematical education.

This has been by far one of the best things that have happened to our little schoolhouse in regards to math. We can't wait to start using the science CD's as well. The price is well worth the incredible personal in-home tutoring your child will receive. A "Must Buy" on any Saxon user's school supply list.



-- Product Review by: Deborah Wuehler, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine