FAQs
Is this right for my student?
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Is your course right for my student? |
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One of our goals is for students to be well prepared for standardized tests, college-level coursework, and even STEM-based majors. However, we believe that this preparation is best achieved through a deeper, more meaningful approach to learning mathematics. We see math not only as a tool for problem-solving, but as an art form—rich with patterns, beauty, and elegance—and we believe students deserve the opportunity to encounter it that way. Our courses are designed for families who value a discovery-based approach, grounded in the Charlotte Mason philosophy. Rather than asking students to memorize and apply algorithms by rote, we invite them to explore mathematical ideas, reason through problems, and build deep understanding. We do not teach with the sole aim of passing standardized tests. Instead, we treat mathematics as a living subject—full of meaning and connection. In the spirit of Miss Mason’s approach, we offer students “knowledge proper to [the student],”believing that math is not merely a subject to get through, but a discipline that fosters clarity of thought, logical reasoning, and creative problem-solving. As Charlotte Mason said, “What a child learns matters less than how he learns it,” and we take care “that all knowledge offered him is vital, that is, that facts are not presented without their informing ideas.” If you're looking for a math course that honors the personhood of your child and emphasizes wonder, discovery, and meaningful learning—while still building the skills needed for future academic success—then yes, our course may be just the right fit. |
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This sounds like it’s for students who already enjoy math. What if my student is math-phobic, says they hate math, or insists they’re just “bad at it”? |
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You're not alone—and your student is not beyond help! We've received so much feedback from parents and students who came to us with frustration, fear, or even dread when it came to math. Again and again, we hear: “I never liked math before,” or “This is the first time my child has actually enjoyed math!” By teaching math as a meaningful and connected story—including the history and development of ideas, especially in geometry—we help students see the “why” behind the concepts. This approach invites them into the wonder of mathematics, instead of shutting them out with drills and disconnected procedures. So yes—this course is especially for students who think they dislike math. Our goal is to change that, gently and thoughtfully, one discovery at a time. |
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So will my student who is gifted in math enjoy this course? |
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Absolutely. Students who are already strong in math often thrive in our courses. Because our approach is discovery-based, there’s room to explore, question, and go deeper. Rather than rushing through content or simply completing exercises, students are encouraged to think critically, engage with big ideas, and appreciate the beauty and structure of mathematics. For gifted learners, this kind of environment can be both refreshing and invigorating—challenging in the best possible way. So yes—if your student enjoys math and is ready for something more meaningful than just the next workbook page, they’ll likely love this course. |
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I'd like some advice about my student's math journey. |
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Tabitha offers math consultations to support families navigating their child's math education. Whether you're wondering if your student is ready for Algebra, concerned about their current progress, or simply unsure about the next steps, a consultation can help bring clarity. Each consultation costs $30 and includes a one-hour Zoom conversation, a written summary of the discussion shared via Google Docs, and a recording of the meeting for your reference. To schedule a consultation, simply choose a time that works for you using my booking calendar. After you schedule, you’ll receive a Zoom link within 24 hours. If the calendar doesn’t go out far enough or you don’t see a time that works for your schedule, feel free to email me directly at tabitha@climbinghighermath.com to arrange a time. |
How do your courses work?
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What is your suggested course sequence/progression? |
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In general, students will complete Algebra I, followed by Geometry, and then Algebra II/Trigonometry. Following Algebra II/Trig, students will be ready to proceed to Precalculus. Some, however, may want to pursue a study of finite math, consumer math, statistics, or some other topic. |
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Is there a sample class I could view? |
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Yes! Watch this to see an excerpt from one of Dr. Julie's live geometry classes. Additionally, a sample of the lesson used in the self-paced and asynchrous coures for both Algebra and Geometry area available.
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Why do we teach formal geometry after a course of algebra 1?
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Charlotte Mason suggests studying algebra and geometry together. But, at CHM, we teach formal geometry after a full-course of algebra 1. Why do we veer from Charlotte's suggestion? We do love her philosophy and her suggestion of integrating geometry and algebra together. One reason we do is because of the books we choose, but this video explains in more depth why our courses are set up the way they are. |
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What if I (the parent) don’t understand the math? |
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Don’t worry—you’re not expected to teach the material yourself! We understand that many parents may feel unsure about supporting their student in math, especially with a discovery-based approach. Your role is to help ensure your student is staying engaged and completing their work. If they’re struggling, encourage them to reach out—we welcome questions! In many cases, we can provide support through a brief, personalized video response. And when needed, we’re happy to schedule a one-on-one session to walk through a concept together. We’re here to support your student’s learning—you're not in this alone. |
Where should I place my student?
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Is my student ready for Algebra I? |
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A solid understanding of arithmetic, including fractions, decimals, percents, rates, ratios, averages, and graphs (bar and line) is necessary to begin the study of algebra. Since algebra is really just generalized arithmetic (learning to apply the arithmetic knowledge your student has gained to a generalized variable, x, which is a placeholder for any number), a mastery of arithmetic is of supreme importance. We would be happy to discuss your student's math background and help you determine whether he or she is prepared to embark on an algebraic journey. A placement test you can have your child take to better determine if they are ready to begin Algebra 1 is below. Click on the link below to access a pdf of a placement test for Algebra 1. |
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Is my student ready for Geometry? |
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Completion of an Algebra 1 class is necessary to begin the study of high school geometry. Ideally, your student would have had some study of Practical Geometry during Forms 2 or 3. However, this geometry course can be taken without that preparation. We would be happy to discuss your student's math background and help you determine whether he or she is prepared to embark on a geometric journey. |
Live Courses
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How are the live classes structured? |
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Two days a week, there are live-classes held on Zoom. The following days, an assignment is given. On Fridays, there is a fun/review/assessment lesson given.
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How much work outside of class time can be expected? |
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In general, a student can expect to spend an hour working independently on assignments on non-class days, including Fridays. |
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Do I have to attend every class live? |
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It is highly encouraged! A Charlotte Mason approach to math involves a guided discovery during class. This class is intended to be interactive! Students are expected to actively participate during class. This could include privately chatting with the instructor, or vocally answering questions, but all students are expected to join the conversation during class somehow. However, we know that homeschoolers value flexibility, and sometimes unavoidable conflicts arise. Each class will be recorded and placed in Google Classroom in case one is missed. |
Asynchronous Courses
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Will my student need to ever meet live with the class? |
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There will be a live gathering to kick off the course, but it is optional. There will be no required live class meetings. |
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How do office hours work? |
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Office hour options will be posted in Canvas Classroom. A student can then "book" an appointment block from the options provided. Meetings will take place over Zoom. |
Self-Paced Courses
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How long do we have access to the course materials? |
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Access will be given for at least one year from registration. The first group, those who register anytime during the 2024 calendar year, will have access from August 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025. |
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Could my student work through algebra and geometry concurrently using these courses? |
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These courses are entirely self-paced, and can be used to complete "streams" of math, as many Charlotte Mason homeschoolers like to do. Purchasing a self-paced course gives you access to that one subject for at least one year (the precise end date is listed in the course description). So, you may need to purchase the course more than one year if you choose this route. For more on our view why the streams are not necessary with current text books, see "Why do you teach formal geometry afte ra course in algebera 1?" in the FAQs. |
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Can more than one student use the materials? |
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A separate enrollment is needed for each student. Because the course materials are interactive and dynamic, only one student can complete each lesson. |
Device Requirements
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What are the system requirements for the devices my child will be using? |
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While the devices needed are listed in the supplies list of the courses, the devices being used need to meet the system requirements of each platform used. The requirements for each of the following platforms have been updated as of June 25, 2021. Please use the links for the platforms to verify that they are accurate.
Instructure products support the current and previous major releases of the following browsers:
The Instructure webpage provides steps to verify that the browser you are currently using is up to date.
Desmos Classroom is committed to supporting the two most recent versions of the following major modern browsers:
Wayground runs on any device with a browser window. PCs, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and all other devices run on Android, iOS/Mac, Windows, and Linux. Modern browsers like Chrome, Safari, Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer 11+ are also compatible with Wayground. Formative can be accessed from any device that has a modern, up-to-date browser and stable high-speed internet connection. For desktop computers, we recommend you use the current stable version of Google Chrome or Firefox. Third-party browsers based on Chrome or Firefox technology should also work.
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What costs are involved?
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Do you offer a sibling discount? |
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As homeschool moms of multiple kids, we understand why you ask! We only charge one registration fee of $50 per family per year, no matter how many students you enroll, in order to help alleviate costs. |
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How much do your courses cost? |
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Each family is assessed a $50 registration fee each year, in addition to course tuition.
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