Are you a parent who is struggling to find the right math program for your child? Do you feel frustrated by the lack of progress your child is making in math? Are you tired of watching your child struggle with math homework and tests? You are not alone.
Many parents face the same challenge when it comes to finding the best math program for their children. The good news is that there is a solution that can help your child excel in math and build a strong foundation for their future success.
The main difference is that Mathnasium focuses on conceptual understanding, while Russian Math focuses on problem-solving and speed.
In this article, we’ll compare Mathnasium vs Russian Math and help you make an informed decision on which tutoring center is the right fit for your child.
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Introduction to the Debate: Mathnasium vs Russian Math
If you are considering online tutoring, the most important step is to carefully compare all your options for top online tutoring services and make an informed decision on which tutoring service is the right fit for your child.
We have analyzed the two programs Mathnasium vs Russian Math on the following parameters:
- Subjects offered
- Teaching methodology
- Tutor matching process
- Pricing and plans offered
- Customer reviews
Mathnasium vs Russian Math: Comparison
The following table can help in easily determining which platform will be a good choice for you based on different parameters.
| Parameters | Mathnasium | Russian School Of Math |
| Company type | In-center and online tutoring. | Offline classroom and online tutoring |
| Subjects Offered | Covers mathematics topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. | Focuses only on math topics, like arithmetic, algebra, calculus, and geometry. |
| Mode of teaching | Online and In-Person classes. | Offline classroom teaching and online |
| Cost of tutoring | Kindergarten and grade 1: 1.5 hours for $52 monthly and $1872 yearly.Grade 2-6: 2 hours for $80 monthly and $2298 yearly.Grade 7-12: 4 hours for $103 monthly and $3708 yearly. | Kindergarten and grade 1: 1.5 hours for $52 monthly $1872 yearly.Grade 2-6: 2 hours for $80 monthly $2298 yearly.Grade 7-12: 4 hours for $103 monthly $3708 yearly. |
| Minimum purchase | You must pay a non-refundable annual registration fee of $100.If you are joining mid-year pay a reduced fee of $80 from January through March or $40 if joining in April or later. Enrollment is not finalized until the annual registration fee is received. | You must pay a non-refundable annual registration fee of $100.If you are joining mid-year pay a reduced fee of $80 from January through March or$40 if joining in April or later. Enrollment is not finalized until the annual registration fee is received. |
| Help in Tutor selection(Tutor Match) | The service connects you with a tutor based on your requirements. | RSM offers tutoring through its learning centers and online. The typical class size is 12 students and you have to study from the tutor allocated by them. |
| Offers free trial | Yes. Mathnasium offers a free trial for 30 minutes. | No. |
| Cancellation policy | 6 hours or less notice will be treated as sessions are taken. | If a written cancellation notice is received by RSM anytime before the 3rd lesson, the first 2 lessons will be considered a trial period and all tuition will be fully refunded (not including the registration fee). After the 3rd lesson and before the 20th lesson cancellations are accepted anytime with a 1 month (4 lessons) written notice. After Lesson 20 all new students are considered continuing and should follow the cancellation policy of a continuing student. RSM Branch should be notified about a cancellation via email. |
| Rating | Trustpilot score: 3.8/5. | Not available |
Understanding Mathnasium
What is Mathnasium?
Mathnasium is a specialized learning center that focuses on mathematics education for students of all ages.
At Mathnasium, the primary goal is to help students build a solid foundation in math and develop strong mathematical skills.
They offer individualized instruction, personalized learning plans, and a structured curriculum designed to meet the specific needs of each student.
Their teaching approach is designed to help students develop a deep understanding of math concepts and build confidence in their math abilities.
The center offers a supportive learning environment where students can work at their own pace, ask questions, and receive personalized instruction from trained math instructors.
The Mathnasium Method focuses on three main components: assessment, customized learning plans, and ongoing support. The program begins with an assessment to identify the student’s strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in their math knowledge.
Based on the assessment results, a personalized learning plan is created for the student, targeting their specific needs and goals.
Throughout their Mathnasium journey, students receive ongoing support and instruction from instructors, who monitor their progress and provide guidance and feedback.
How does Mathnasium work?
Mathnasium is a math learning center that operates on a unique approach to help students improve their mathematical skills and build a strong foundation in the subject.
The core of Mathnasium’s methodology lies in its individualized learning plans, customized to meet the specific needs of each student.
The first step at Mathnasium is an initial assessment, where students are evaluated to identify their current skill level and areas of strengths and weaknesses.
This assessment helps the instructors create a customized learning plan for each student, focusing on filling knowledge gaps and enhancing comprehension of mathematical concepts.
Once the learning plan is established, students attend regular sessions at the Mathnasium center, typically 2-3 times per week, for as long as they need.
These sessions are typically held in a small group setting, allowing for personalized attention and guidance from trained math instructors.
Mathnasium follows a structured curriculum that covers a wide range of math topics, starting from the elementary level and progressing through high school-level math.
The curriculum is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of mathematical principles, helping students excel not only in their current coursework but also in future math-related endeavors.
To support students’ learning, Mathnasium provides customized Mathnasium worksheets, textbooks, and manipulatives. These resources are used to reinforce concepts, provide additional practice, and encourage hands-on learning experiences.
By combining these materials with personalized instruction, Mathnasium aims to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
In addition to in-person sessions, Mathnasium also offers online tutoring options for students who prefer remote learning or have scheduling constraints.
This flexibility allows students to access Mathnasium’s instruction and support from the comfort of their own homes.
Subjects covered by Mathnasium
Mathnasium focuses exclusively on mathematics, covering a wide range of topics across all grade levels.
The program is designed to help students develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, build strong problem-solving skills, and excel in math.
Here are some of the subjects and skills covered by Mathnasium:
| Subjects/Skills | Description |
| Arithmetic | Mathnasium covers the basics of arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. |
| Algebra | Students learn algebraic concepts such as variables, equations, inequalities, functions, and graphs. |
| Geometry | Mathnasium covers geometry topics such as shapes, angles, lines, planes, and coordinate geometry. |
| Trigonometry | Students learn trigonometric functions, identities, and equations. |
| Calculus | Mathnasium covers calculus topics such as limits, derivatives, and integrals. |
| Test Preparation | Mathnasium helps students prepare for math-related exams, including standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. |
What is the minimum age for kids to enroll in Mathnasium?
Mathnasium is designed for students of all ages, from young children to adults. The minimum age for kids to enroll in Mathnasium varies by location, but most centers accept students as young as 5 years old, basically in grades K-12.
Source: Mathnasium Official Website
What is the cost of Mathnasium?
The cost of the Mathnasium can vary by location, as each center sets its own fees based on factors such as local operating costs and the services offered.
Mathnasium cost per month includes regular sessions with a Mathnasium instructor, personalized learning plans, and ongoing progress monitoring.
The average pricing of Mathnasium is as below:
| Service | Average cost |
| Evaluation and enrollment fees | $100 – $150 |
| Cost per session | $25 – $75 |
| Cost per month | $250 – $400 |
| Summer programs (8 sessions to unlimited) | $395 – $1,000 |
Source: Mathnasium
*Pricing info retrieved from the Mathnasium website in November 2023
Evaluating Mathnasium: Pros vs Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Personalized Instruction: Mathnasium’s program is customized to each student’s individual needs and learning style, so students receive personalized instruction and support that can help them improve their math skills. | Limited Subjects: Mathnasium doesn’t teach any other subject except maths. So it may not be suitable for some of the students. |
| Comprehensive Curriculum: Mathnasium covers a wide range of math topics across all grade levels, from arithmetic to calculus, so students can build a strong foundation in math and develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. | No one-on-one tutoring: Students may grow more if they have one on one seasons with their instructors. But Mathnasium doesn’t provide one on one tutoring. |
| Focus on Mastery: Mathnasium’s program emphasizes mastery of key mathematical concepts, rather than just memorization or rote learning. This can help students develop strong problem-solving skills and build confidence in their math abilities. | Frequent change of tutors: Students work with different tutors rather than the same one each week as the tutors keep on changing frequently. |
| Flexible Scheduling: Mathnasium offers flexible scheduling, with sessions available during after-school hours and on weekends. This can make it easier for students to fit math tutoring into their busy schedules. | |
| Ongoing Support: Mathnasium provides ongoing support to students, with regular progress monitoring and assessments to ensure that students are making progress and achieving their goals. | |
| Certified Instructors: Mathnasium’s instructors are trained and certified in the Mathnasium Method, which emphasizes teaching math in a way that is easy to understand and engaging for students. |
Understanding Russian Math
What is the Russian Math?
Russian Math or the Russian School of Math is a math education system that originated in the Soviet Union and is now taught in many American schools and specialized math centers.
The system emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking skills and is designed to teach students to work independently.
Russian Math education begins in pre-kindergarten and continues through 12th grade, with no year-to-year benchmarks.
Instead, students are on a continuous schedule that relies less on exams and more on classroom collaboration.
The program focuses more on the “why” of math problems, rather than just the “how”.
The main difference between Russian Math and the math being taught in schools is the methodology that emphasizes derivation. Russian Math is known for its rigor and challenging problem sets that push students to think creatively and deeply about math concepts.
How does Russian Math work?
Russian math typically works by emphasizing a problem-solving approach that focuses on developing a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.
Some of the key features of how Russian math works are
- Emphasis on problem-solving: In Russian math programs, students are encouraged to solve complex problems from an early age. This helps them develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to work independently.
- Mastery-based learning: Russian math programs typically follow a mastery-based approach, which means that students are expected to fully master each topic before moving on to the next one. This ensures that students have a strong foundation in the basics and can build upon that knowledge as they progress.
- Focus on logic and reasoning: Russian math places a strong emphasis on logic and reasoning, and students are often asked to explain how they arrived at a particular solution. This helps them develop a deeper understanding of the underlying concepts and principles.
- Early introduction of advanced topics: Russian math programs often introduce advanced topics at an earlier age than traditional programs. For example, students may be introduced to algebra and geometry in elementary school, which allows them to build a strong foundation in these subjects.
- Intensive training: Russian math programs often involve intensive training, with students attending classes multiple times per week and participating in additional homework and practice problems. This helps students develop their skills and deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts.
Topics covered by Russian Math
Russian Math covers a wide range of topics and skills, including
| Topics/Skills | Description |
| Arithmetic | This includes operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. |
| Algebra | This includes equations, inequalities, functions, and graphing. |
| Geometry | This includes plane and solid geometry, including shapes, angles, lines, and planes. |
| Trigonometry | This includes the study of angles and triangles, including the trigonometric functions. |
| Calculus | This includes the study of limits, derivatives, and integrals. |
| Probability and statistics | This includes the study of probability, random variables, and statistical analysis. |
| Number theory | This includes the study of integers, prime numbers, and divisibility. |
| Combinatorics | This includes the study of counting, permutations, and combinations. |
What is the minimum age for kids to enroll in Russian Math?
The pricing for RSM varies by location of the center, the grade of the student, and the number of subjects. You can expect to pay between $2000 to $3500 for a full year tuition at RSM offers pricing for 4 levels which are as given below:
| Grade | Pricing |
| Kindergarten to Grade 1 | Average price $50 per class |
| Grade 2 to Grade 5 | Average price $60 per class |
| Grade 6 | Average price ranges from $40 to $80 per class for geometry and algebra lessons |
| Grade 7 to 12 | Average price ranges from $50 to $100 per class for geometry and algebra lessons |
RSM offers multiple payment plans. You can pay monthly, semi-annually, or one time for full-year tuition.
Source: Russian School of Mathematics Official Website
Evaluating Russian Math: Pros vs Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Russian math emphasizes a problem-solving approach that can help students develop strong critical thinking and analytical skills. By approaching complex problems with logic and creativity, students can become better equipped to tackle a wide range of challenges in all areas of their lives. | Russian math programs can be very challenging and require a significant amount of time and effort. This can be overwhelming for some students, especially if they are already busy with other extracurricular activities or academic responsibilities. |
| Russian math programs can provide students with strong preparation for competitive exams such as the SAT, ACT, and various math competitions. | Russian math programs follow a standardized curriculum that may not be customized as per individual students’ learning styles or abilities. |
| Russian math is recognized worldwide for its rigor and effectiveness in developing strong mathematical skills. | Russian math programs typically focus exclusively on mathematics and may not provide as much exposure or instruction in other subjects such as science, history, or language arts. |
Mathnasium vs Russian Math: which is the right fit for your child?
Mathnasium and Russian Math are two of the leading math tutoring platforms for kids, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The main difference between Mathnasium and Russian Math is that Mathnasium focuses on conceptual understanding, while Russian Math focuses on problem-solving and speed.
Both Mathnasium and Russian Math are excellent platforms for kids, but the best choice depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences.
Mathnasium provides a hands-on learning environment and focuses on making math fun. Mathnasium uses a personalized learning plan and tutors move around small groups of students. However, it is more expensive than Russian Math.
Russian Math, on the other hand, offers a highly structured curriculum and focuses on repetitive practice to help students become independent learners and develop strong academic skills. The program is less expensive than Mathnasium and students mainly work independently.
Here are some additional pointers that may help you decide between Mathnasium and Russian Math:
- Subject Matter: Both Mathnasium and Russian Math focus on math and provide guidance with various math topics, like arithmetic, algebra, calculus, and geometry. If your child needs help specifically with math, either of these specialized approaches may be beneficial.
- Location and Scheduling: Consider the location of the tutoring centers and the scheduling options. Both Mathnasium and Russian Math offer in-person and online tutoring, so you can choose the option that best fits your family’s schedule.
Mathnasium vs Russian Math cost
Although the pricing of both the programs varies by location but here is an overview of the Mathnasium vs Russian Math cost comparison.
| Mathnasium | Russian Math |
| Evaluation and enrollment fees: $100 – $150 | Russian School of Mathematics (RSM) charges between $150 to $300 per month. |
| Academic coaching: $290 per month and up. | $2,000 a year when students attend the classes once a week. |
| Cost per session: $25 – $75 Cost per month: $250 – $400 | |
| Advancement classes and camps: $290 per month and up |
Why should you consider Wiingy for 1-on-1 online tutoring?
So far, we have explored the benefits of Mathnasium vs Russian Math for your child’s math education. However, if you’re looking for another cost-effective online tutoring option to consider for your child, look no further than Wiingy.
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Less than 3% of applicants are selected to become tutors on Wiingy’s platform. This means that you work only with top verified, qualified, and experienced tutors.
An experienced tutor will be able to create a structured lesson plan customized to your pace and learning style. You will also get access to study materials, notes, practice materials, and exam strategies to help accelerate your learning.
We know that sometimes you don’t want to pay for private tutoring because it is too expensive. Tutoring costs anywhere from $100 to $150 per hour which isn’t reasonable at all.
However, Wiingy’s rates are affordable, starting from just $28 per hour, much lower than the average tutoring offered by other platforms.
We don’t require you to sign up for packages or subscriptions, so you can pay for lessons as you need them. We also offer a free trial lesson so you can try out our service before you commit.
While we try to match you with the perfect tutor per your needs, we understand that sometimes, even the best tutors might not be the right fit for you.
This is why we offer you the Perfect Match Guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your tutor for any reason, you can request a replacement tutor at no additional cost.
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In addition, we have 24/7 instant support from a personal student success advisor. You can contact your advisor via chat or phone if you have any questions, whether it’s about your lessons, your tutor, payments, or if you are looking to explore any other subject.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs )
What does Russian math teach?
Russian Math teaches math concepts to students using a Russian-style curriculum that emphasizes problem-solving, logical reasoning, and critical thinking skills. The program covers topics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and more.
What is the best age for Mathnasium?
Mathnasium is designed for students of all ages, from young children to adults. The minimum age for kids to enroll in Mathnasium varies by location, but most centers accept students as young as 5 years old, basically in grades K-12.
Can my child try a session before committing to a program?
Mathnasium and Russian Math offer trial sessions to give students and parents an idea of what to expect before committing to a program.
What age is the Russian School of Mathematics for?
Students can enroll in Russian Math at any age, including pre-kindergarten, which means at the age of 4-5 years old.
Is there a long-term commitment required for Mathnasium or Russian Math?
Mathnasium and Russian Math both offer flexible scheduling and no long-term commitment is required. Students can attend sessions as often as needed.
