Saxon Math is a comprehensive K-12 mathematics curriculum using an incremental, spiral approach where new concepts are introduced in small steps and continuously reviewed, building long-term retention and mathematical confidence.
What is Saxon Math?
Saxon Math is a mathematics curriculum developed by John Saxon in the early 1980s. A former junior college math teacher, Saxon observed that students often had significant gaps in foundational concepts. He created a curriculum built on two key principles: incremental development (breaking complex concepts into small, manageable steps) and continual review (revisiting concepts repeatedly over time). Now published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Saxon has delivered proven results for over 35 years and remains one of the most thoroughly researched homeschool math programs available.
Key Takeaways
- Uses spiral/incremental approach: introduce concepts gradually, review constantly
- Complete K-12 coverage from kindergarten through calculus
- About 80% of daily work focuses on review, 20% on new concepts
- Geometry is integrated throughout algebra courses, not taught separately
- Homeschool kits include textbook, tests/worksheets, and solutions manual
The Spiral Method Explained
Unlike mastery-based curricula that teach one topic deeply before moving on, Saxon introduces new concepts incrementally—one small piece at a time—while continuously reviewing previous material. Each lesson teaches something new, then daily practice includes problems from that lesson plus material from weeks or months prior. A typical problem set might be 80% review and 20% new content. This approach ensures concepts move from short-term to long-term memory through spaced repetition. Students who struggle with retention often thrive with Saxon because they encounter each concept dozens of times throughout the year.
Grade Level Coverage
What's Included in Homeschool Kits
For grades 4 and up, homeschool kits include the student textbook (non-consumable, reusable with multiple children), consumable tests and worksheets (for one student), and either an answer key or full solutions manual. The solutions manual shows complete worked solutions—essential for parents who may not remember higher math and for students learning independently. Saxon Publishers requires purchasing the complete kit before buying solutions manuals separately. For K-3, kits include scripted teacher manuals, student workbooks, and a meeting book, with manipulatives sold separately.
Who Saxon Works Best For
Saxon shines with students who need regular review to retain concepts, prefer structured and predictable learning environments, learn well by following step-by-step procedures, or have struggled with math confidence and need steady success. The daily practice builds automatic recall of foundational skills. However, students who get bored with repetition, learn best through visual/spatial approaches, or prefer diving deep into single topics may find Saxon frustrating. The program's strength—constant review—can feel tedious to quick learners who master concepts on first exposure.
Implementation Tips
Saxon works best when used consistently over multiple years, as its spiral structure builds on previous levels. Take the free placement test to start at the correct level—starting too high creates gaps, while starting too low causes boredom. Complete all problems; the incremental approach relies on practicing each concept multiple times with increasing complexity. Consider doing four days weekly year-round, which keeps pace while building in breaks. For algebra and above, the solutions manual is essentially required—don't skip it. Video supplements from services like Nicole the Math Lady can help if students need instruction beyond the textbook.
The Bottom Line
Saxon Math has earned its reputation as a rigorous, effective curriculum for building mathematical competency. The spiral approach particularly benefits students who need repeated exposure to cement concepts in long-term memory. While the traditional format and repetitive nature won't appeal to every learner, families who commit to Saxon often see their students develop genuine mathematical confidence and strong computational skills. The non-consumable textbooks offer value for multi-child families, and the clear structure makes planning straightforward. If your student needs steady, systematic skill-building, Saxon deserves serious consideration.
