Why Did Demme Learning Develop Algebra 1: PSM?

Since 2005, we’ve offered basic Algebra 1 instruction using our familiar Math-U-See formula. While this approach has helped thousands of students grasp the fundamentals of Algebra 1, we recognized that our customers could benefit from additional tools and updated learning strategies to help students be better prepared for the mathematical journey ahead. That’s where Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics (PSM) comes in. In 2022, we launched this comprehensive and effective program, built for students looking for a more rigorous course. 

Think back to your algebra classes. If you’re like us, they included an old textbook with thousands of problems (and little else), a teacher, and—depending on your age—a chalkboard, overhead projector, or a whiteboard. What it likely did not include was note-taking, vocabulary, and technology, such as graphing software. These updates are an integral part of Algebra 1: PSM and they introduce learners to a broader and more complex world of math applications.

In order to keep pace with how the study of algebra changes, we needed to assess and adapt our curriculum. The result? PSM, which offers some really great benefits to both students and instructors.

PSM Benefits for Students:

• Promotes independent learning (with parent/instructor check-ins).
• Includes new content, adhering to current algebra requirements and recommendations.
• Explains the importance of and the proper time and place to use technology such as calculators, graphing calculators, and graphing software.
• Provides more encompassing application problems (using very small and/or very large numbers), made accessible by using technology.
• Develops important note-taking skills through guided notes and examples, showing how to pull out the most important details from a lesson.
• Demonstrates and teaches problem-solving skills.
• Encourages the important life skill of perseverance.

PSM Benefits for Parents and Instructors:

• Does not require the instructor to be comfortable teaching algebra to help students be successful.
• Provides an Instructor Handbook that is a thorough page-to-page Student Worktext companion guide, designed specifically for the instructor.
• Uses Instructor Notes to help instructors get students “unstuck.”
• Includes a rubric to help determine student mastery.

Who should use PSM?

Everyone!

If your goal is to prepare your student for college and/or career, PSM checks all the boxes. PSM presents algebra through commonly recognized mathematical practices.

As we discussed at the start, we developed PSM as an answer to the currently accepted algebra-level requirements. If you want your student to be comfortable and competitive in algebra, PSM is for you.
The better question is why wouldn’t you use PSM?

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