By Amy
(South Carolina)
Visitor Review:
I used the ACE Social Studies books for 3rd grade, and the 6th grade. (the same year, 2 different grades) At first glance~GLANCE, I thought this was great. It is set up in a 10 book format (called paces). The thought behind this is to allow the students to see their progress. An approach (idea) I like, as do my children. I failed to go over my books in the summer due to, honestly, my own laziness. The first day of school my children were near tears because the books were “baby-ish”. My 3rd grader could do the 6th grade books. The paces were so horribly under age that we never finished them. They were expensive! Some questions would ask you to fill in the blank with the correct vocab word. The multiple choice options were so obviously ridiculous options! Like: Pudge will cal his grandmother on the…A)dog B)car C)telephone. There was absolutely NO CHALLENGE to these Paces. I can’t believe people actually use this company. Yes, there is a placement test you can administer (which I found AFTER my shock of what the Paces were). My third grader could successfully complete the Paces at grade levels HIGHER than 3rd. (same for my 6th grader) I STRONGLY suggest another company if you want to actually teach your children at the appropriate grade level. Also, call ANY Christian college in this country and ask if freshmen students are at grade level upon entry. You will hear a NO. Too bad I didn’t do a better job of calling around and researching the ACE program until AFTER I was disappointed. My learning experience can be your gain. Don’t waist your hard earned money on ACE.