Don't Like Math?

     "I don't like math. When will I ever use this? I fail every math test!"   If  this sounds familiar, as a parent, you are not alone.

      Many students struggle with learning math. They just don't see the value or how understanding and being able to use some basic math skills will help them. 

      This year our district changed the way students were placed in math classes. Instead of having the majority of our students take Algebra I, they were placed in an Algebra Readiness class. Students who scored below proficient on their last years math CST were given an additional class referred to as "math intervention". 

     So how is this helping our students like math?  To start, students have more time to explore math with hands on activities, real world projects, alternative forms of assessments (more project based tests) and computer programs which engage and entertain.

      Making math more meaningful and user friendly benefits our struggling math students and has been a primary goal of Algebra Readiness. Building this strong foundation will help our students become successful next year in Algebra and as they pursue higher level math classes.

     As a parent encourage your child to use the math they are learning. Take them grocery shopping and have them estimate the final bill.  Have them price compare and determine which product is cheaper. Have them figure out the discount on sale items. If they are eating out, have them figure out tax and tip. Allow them to use calculators and most of all, encourage and praise their efforts.