Reply to AOPS - why didn't it work for you?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]

AoPS is great but really focuses on [b]techniques that are largely frustrating for the majority of children[/b]. It sets them up for failure. I woulnd't recommend it for all but a few who express a serious interest in math. This is definitely not a program to push you kid into.[/quote]

Could you elaborate on these "techniques that are largely frustrating for the majority of children?"

My 95th-ish percentile DD had no problems with the AoPS classes, and they're one of the reasons she has excelled at her current, very rigorous school.

That being said, there are reasons why AoPS might not work even for kids who are very bright at math.
1. AoPS has a philosophy of discouraging perfectionism.  The homework sets and tests are set up so that kids generally will not get 90% or higher correct.  An "A" equivalent grade would be around a 75%.  Some kids can't deal with that, especially if they're used to getting everything correct in their regular schools.

2.  The most successful normal, bright kids in AoPS are the ones who start in Beast Academy and work their way up.  Kids who try to jump in at Algebra after doing regular school math for years are likely to lack the problem solving skills needed.

3.  The kids don't need to love math, but they need to at least like it enough that they don't resent spending their free time doing even more math.  Some parents force their kids to take AoPS classes who pretty strongly don't want to be taking any supplemental math.[/quote]

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