Denison Algebra Review: A Gentle, Confidence-Building Math Curriculum for Homeschoolers

If you have a student who doesn’t like math—or who’s lost their way somewhere along the way—Denison Algebra may be just what you need. Denison Algebra is a mathematics curriculum that specializes in a gradual, easy-to-comprehend style that even non-mathy students can grasp.

We’ve used it in our home school, and having exchanged notes with other reviewers and home school parents, I can assure you: Denison Algebra is as accessible as any math program on the market today.

What Is Denison Algebra?

Denison Algebra is created by David Denison, a long-time math educator who truly comprehends how to break down things into easy to understand ways. The program is offered for middle school and high school students and spans from Pre-Algebra to Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry.

A typical course includes:

Short video lessons (about 15–20 minutes each) in which Mr. Denison walks students step by step through each topic.
A student textbook that follows along with the videos.
A solutions manual with answers and explanations.
Two sets of each chapter test—so your student can retest after review if needed.
Optional parent and pacing guides to keep you on track.

It’s independent, meaning less hands-on teaching time for parents—something most homeschool families will appreciate.

Why It Works for Non-Mathy Kids

The best part of Denison Algebra is its gentle, nurturing pace. It’s not flashy or lightning-fast, but that’s exactly why it’s so effective for students who need math to be rock-solid clear, unshakeable, and dependable.

Each chapter is divided into short lessons with a single new concept at a time. The solutions are comprehensive but never excessive, and the exercises are selected with consideration to facilitate understanding rather than forcing too much too quickly.

If your student prefers to close up shop when math gets too challenging or progresses too quickly, this more deliberate, less frantic pace helps to regain confidence. It’s mastery, not rote memorization.

Short Lessons That Stick

Most homeschool parents (and students) report enjoying the brief daily lessons. The videos are typically 15–20 minutes long, followed by practice problems that review only one concept.

It’s easier to be consistent with math—a real plus if your child is apt to become frustrated or distracted in the middle of long lessons.

In our experience, brief but quality math time was the secret to its success. Less stress, less confusion, fewer “I don’t get it” moments.

Mastery-Based Testing (With a Second Chance!)

A test is given at the end of every chapter to show what the students have learned. Denison is unique in that it uses a two-test approach.

Each chapter has a Test A and a Test B. If your child makes a mistake on the first test, they can review and try again with the second. The simple feature encourages mastery instead of plodding along until ready.

It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference for kids who need more time or reassurance. They are not punished for not “getting it” the first time—that space is given to fully understand the material.

Teaching Style: Calm and Clear

Mr. Denison is very easy to listen to and has a gentle, friendly teaching style that really puts students at ease and makes them feel comfortable with math. He explains things clearly without getting confusing, and he spends time explaining how and why each step in a problem works.

He’s not like some video-based courses that zip through examples. He moves slowly and deliberately. It’s like having a private tutor who is patient, encouraging, and easy to follow.

Because the lessons are built one thought at a time, students gain confidence with each step. It’s exactly the reverse of all those clunky math courses that overload students at once.

Pros and Cons

What We Love:

Short, bite-sized lessons that are easy to incorporate into a homeschool day.
Step-by-step video instruction.
Recreational pace—excellent for students who need math to be within grasp.
Master Builder system with two test levels per chapter.
Encourages independence (less parent intervention needed).

Things to Consider:

The pace might be too slow for advanced or math-loving students.
You’ll need reliable access to the online videos—this isn’t a textbook-only course.
It’s a premium curriculum (typically around $175–$185 per course). In my opinion, worth it, but worth budgeting for.