One major Common Core change is in the pace of math taught in the early grades. Teachers now cover fewer topics but in greater depth. The goal is to achieve mastery of the basics early on. The theory is that previously schools throughout America taught too much, too soon. The controversy lies in the fact that for some advanced students they are in essence being held back from their full potential. Some can learn more quickly than others and this system appears to teach to the middle. What do you think?
Homework Strategy
Having a ton of homework can be overwhelming for a student. Students (and adults) may be paralyzed with fear as to how to get all of the homework completed. Have your child identify and start the hardest assignments first. This way their brain will be the least tired and most focused.
PARCC Math Tests
For the PARCC math tests, students will have to solve complex problems, show their work and demonstrate how they solved the problems. Tomorrow in the final part of our PARCC series, learn about new English assessments.
PARCC Tests Grades = MCAS + 2
Students in grades 3 through 8 and 10 currently take MCAS tests in math and English, with some grades also taking annual science tests. The PARCC tests will also start in grade 3 but will be given straight through to 11th grade in both math and English. This is an addition of test taking in grades 9 and 11. Come back tomorrow to find out about the PARCC math tests.
PARCC Tests – Part 2
The second part of the PARCC exam will test for reading comprehension and math concepts. Check back tomorrow to find out what grades will be taking the new PARCC tests.
PARCC Tests – Part 1
The first part of the PARCC tests will assess writing skills and proficiency on multi-staged math problems. Tomorrow we will address what is in store for the second part of the PARCC tests.
Pollard Middle School Testimonial – Needham, MA
Needham Parent Testimonial
“Y3K Tutor In Your Home has been a great support system for my son from elementary school through middle school. Helping him not only with the actual schoolwork but the organizational skills that it will take to be successful in school. My son looks forward to his sessions and plans out what he wants to work on so that he will get the maximum benefit. The tutor (who also happens to be the owner) is always willing to help him out in anything. He really knows my son. He also knows how to motivate and get my son back on task. The owner’s flexibility and support has really helped my son learn to enjoy school and not dread it. I would absolutely recommend Y3K Tutor In Your Home for anyone looking for a tutor.”
– H. B.
Pollard Middle School, High Rock School & Hillside Elementary School – Needham, MA Parent
Board Games and Math Achievement
Research shows playing board games with kids have a major impact on math achievement. Dice and spinners strengthen understanding of probability and counting while games with money teach how to count and make change.
Praise Effort
Praising effort leads to a more confident child. Acknowledging their hard work motivates kids because effort is a factor they can control. Students cannot control the grades they receive, but they can control their preparation and determination to do their best. Applauding their effort reinforces the message that learning and improving is achievable when they try.
Logical Learners
Logical learners think mathematically. These students prefer using logic, reasoning and systems. Logical learners recognize patterns easily, as well as connections between seemingly meaningless content. This also leads them to classify and group information to help learn or understand it. They typically work through problems and issues in a systematic way. This is done by creating to-do lists and ranks them in order before putting them into action. Their scientific approach to thinking means they support their claims with logical examples or statistics. They pick up logic flaws in other peoples words, writing or actions. They also tend to enjoy games like brainteasers, backgammon and chess.
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