Algebra 1 Homeschool Curriculum With Teaching Textbooks

Choosing an Algebra 1 homeschool curriculum felt like a big step for us.

Algebra is the first true high school math course, and I wanted something that would build confidence rather than overwhelm him.

We needed a program that explained new concepts clearly, allowed for review, and didn’t require me to reteach every lesson.

After looking at several options, we chose Teaching Textbooks. Here’s how it worked in our homeschool and what kind of progress we actually saw.

**Disclosure: I was compensated for my time to write this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I only share resources that I would use with my own family and those that I believe other homeschool families will enjoy. There may be affiliate links in this post.**

You can read our detailed Teaching Textbook review to see how we used it at the beginning. Or carry on reading to see how we ended the year with an improved grade.

When Should You Take Algebra 1?

Algebra 1 is typically taken in grade 9, depending on the requirements of the school district. In most cases, students take Algebra 1 after completing pre-algebra and before moving on to geometry.

However, the exact timing of when to take Algebra 1 may vary depending on the student’s individual readiness and academic goals. Some students may be ready to take Algebra 1 earlier, while others may benefit from additional preparation before beginning the course.

As you are homeschooling your child, you have more flexibility in determining when to introduce Algebra 1. It’s important to consider your child’s math skills and readiness when making this decision.

My son completed Algebra 1 halfway through his 7th grade. He took the free placement test with Teaching Textbooks just to check, but I knew he was ready.

Ultimately, the decision of when to take Algebra 1 should be based on the student’s individual needs and goals. A strong foundation in Algebra 1 is essential for success in higher math, so it’s important to ensure that your student is ready and adequately prepared before beginning the course.

Why We Chose Teaching Textbooks for Algebra 1

Teaching Textbooks is not only the best algebra curriculum for homeschooling it is the most affordable.

The cost for a 12-month enrollment is only $72.95, this also allows a 3-month pause option if you are going on vacation.

What is even better is that you can try it for free. You will get the first 15 lessons as a free trial, and if you like it these will transfer to your subscription. No need to do them again.

There is an example of one of the interactive videos, and there is a free placement test.

Teaching Textbooks is an app that can also be used offline, the computer automatically grades the work. But, if your child prefers to do their math on paper, you can do that too. There is an answer key so you can mark their work.

In fact, I am so happy about this as my son changes his mind as often as he changes his socks.

He probably completed about 40% of TT on paper, and the rest online. When he had completed the lesson on paper he still had to add his answers to Teaching Textbooks, but it was super quick.

There is a downside to doing it this way though. The benefit of using the app is that the children will get to see if their work is correct or incorrect immediately as it prevents them from practicing incorrectly.  Also, when getting a problem incorrect, the ability to see how it was solved immediately gives reinforcement through additional teaching.

What We Liked About Teaching Textbooks

Here are the features that stood out to us:

• It is the most affordable
• It does ALL of the gradings, allowing us homeschool moms to focus on other things
• It has regular hints when the children are taking the lessons
• You can, if you prefer, print out the lessons
• You can complete the lessons on the go, either using a PC, laptop, tablet, or even a smartphone
• There is a teacher video for every single lesson
• If needed there is even a tutoring service
• Both kids and parents love it
• There is a 15-lesson free trial, with no credit card required
• Certificate of completion.

On completion of Algebra 1, you can print out the grade book and I recommend you do. But just a bit of warning it is 11 pages long. You can also download the certificate of completion.

I have spoken to other homeschool moms who have also used Teaching Textbooks with their high schoolers. I haven’t personally had negative feedback from families who’ve used it.

We also track progress each year using the NWEA MAP assessment. During the year he completed Algebra 1 with Teaching Textbooks, his math RIT score increased from 236 to 248. While growth depends on many factors, we were encouraged to see measurable improvement.

If you feel that your child isn’t progressing in algebra, it may be worth looking at Teaching Textbooks. Even if you are in the middle of a secular math curriculum you have nothing to lose by giving it a try.

Teaching Textbooks offers a 15-lesson free trial, which makes it easy to see if it’s a good fit.

Last Updated on 11 February 2026 by Clare Brown