Frequently Asked Questions 

DIVE Math 

How do I contact Dr. Shormann?

If you have a question about a math or science problem you can email Dr. Shormann directly at diveintomath@sbcglobal.net.  However, if you have a general curriculum question or a sales type question please contact our experienced staff of homeschool moms at 936-372-9216 or sales@diveintomath.com.

Does Saxon have enough geometry?

Yes, Algebra 2 and the first 1/3 of Advanced Math cover all the topics typically taught in a high school geometry course.  For more details please read the Algebra 2 course description on page 3. 

When should college entrance exams such as the PSAT/SAT/ACT be taken?

Although Algebra 1 and 2 have all the geometry and algebra required to take these exams, the first 1/3 of Advanced Math teaches rate and abstract word problems, preparing students to excel on the PSAT, SAT, and ACT.  However, we recommend taking these tests at least once a year beginning in 10^th grade, allowing students to become familiar and comfortable with the process before it really counts. 

How do you put credits for Saxon Math on a high school transcript?

Please see the DIVE Degree Plan

How much math is required for college?

Most four year colleges require students to have completed Pre-Calculus which is taught in Saxon Advanced Math.

How do you teach Math from a Christian Worldview?

Dr. Shormann teaches that mathematics is a tool for understanding God’s creation, and for understanding the purpose and pattern evident in His creation. Connections to relevant Scriptures are made, and the history of mathematics is discussed. This helps students realize the tremendous Christian heritage of mathematics and science, and how all mathematics resulted from a study of His creation. It doesn’t take long to discuss, but it is important to remind all students that God is the Author and Creator of all knowledge, including mathematics. Consider this: in our world, there exists a huge collection of facts, all subject to interpretation. Who do you want to interpret those facts for your child, a Christian or a non-Christian?

Does the DIVE CD work the problems in the homework set?

No, because it is important for the student, with the right tools, to have the opportunity to figure out the problem on their own.  Instead they first re-watch the lesson where the problem was originally taught.  This is easy to figure out since every question in each Problem Set and Test has a lesson reference number next to it that tells exactly where that concept was originally taught. Then, they try to work the problem again, which gives the student a valuable learning opportunity to take what they just learned and apply it to a new situation, increasing critical thinking skills and long term retention.  If he still doesn’t understand, he can look to the solutions manual, which works every problem step by step, to find where he went wrong, another valuable tool in the learning process. If the student still has trouble with a concept or problem, he can email Dr. Shormann directly for additional help.  However, this is rarely necessary. 

How does DIVE Math compare with other programs?

DIVE is the only digital curriculum that teaches Saxon Math from a distinctively Christian worldview. However it is much less expensive than any other digital math curriculum.  Unlike other programs DIVE does not work every problem for the student.  Instead, we give them the tools they need to figure it out on their own, increasing critical thinking skills and long term retention.  Please read the answer above for specific details on how DIVE does this.

Do I need a special calculator for DIVE Math? If so, which one and how do I use it?

An inexpensive scientific calculator ($10-$15) will work for almost all problems. There are a variety of these, make sure and get one that specifically says “scientific calculator”. For Algebra 2 and up, a graphing calculator is recommended. It is not critical to have one, but you will not be able to complete some lessons, especially in Calculus. Dr. Shormann recommends any of the TI-83 or TI-84 calculators. It is important for all students to use a calculator sparingly, only when specified by the lesson, or when performing operations with very large or ve