Saxon Math?

[SativaStarr]

I'm getting ahead of myself a bit, but I'm thinking when the time comes I'd like to use Saxon math with the kids beginning with Saxon 5/4. Anyways, I see they've come out recently with a 4th addition.

Basically, what I'm wondering is what are the major differences between the versions when it comes to Saxon 5/4 and Saxon 6/5?

I've come across an opportunity currently to purchase Saxon 5/4 and Saxon 6/5 complete homestudy kits for $25 a piece however they are only the 2nd edition.. is it worth picking them up or should I wait and buy a newer version (likely for quite a bit more money in a couple of years?

If anyone who has experience with Saxon could give me their input I'd really appreciate it! Thanks

ETA: The child I am particularly interested in using Saxon 5/4 and up with is my current 1st grader who is on the Autism Spectrum. He has a strong interest in math, is already quite advanced (doing double digit addition and some subtraction problems in his head by kindergarten before he even had any formal instruction). His current first grade math program is extremely easy for him and I anticipate him flying through his 1st-3rd grade math studies at a much faster pace than most children.

[2queens&1princenmyhouse]

I was under the impression that the 5/4 is for 4th grade or 5th graders that may struggle with math. I have my reasonably bright 4th grader doing 5/4 right now and so far she's whizzing right through it. As far as comparison of versions, I can't help you there, sorry.

[beckis]

I think they just revise and update the text - not 'change' the material content. I used Saxon 20+ years ago all through school (homeschool) and I learned great! For that price, I'd snatch it up!

5/4 is used for advanced 4th grade or fifth. Either grade is acceptable for that level. my 8 year old is going into 3rd grade and is a year ahead in math and will be doing the Saxon 5/4 this year, at his own pace of course.

[littlemsmom]

Originally Posted by beckis 5/4 is used for advanced 4th grade or fifth. Either grade is acceptable for that level. my 8 year old is going into 3rd grade and is a year ahead in math and will be doing the Saxon 5/4 this year, at his own pace of course.

That was my impression as well because you can't get 4th or 5th...etc grade curriculum like you can for k-3rd. (for lower levels not jr or sr. high)

We are also doing 5/4 with my 3rd grader that competed Horizons 3 last year and needed something with text for her to reference when she can't remember how to do something and wanted a curriculum that we could go k-calculus with.