And It doesn't make sense to me. Why teach math this way?
The way most of us learned math was through memorization and repetition. And if you can remember... most of us hated math - many still do! It was treacherous and boring. Educators and mathematicians have realized that MATH isn't boring, the way we used to teach math made it that way. The new model in math education - whether you are using Bridges, California Math, or Big Ideas - is much more interactive and really supports the learners' UNDERSTANDING of math, numbers, and logic. Yes, there are times when it won't make sense to you. And those are frustrating times. If there is ever something your child can't get through on their own, and you don't feel like you can help, send them to class the next day with a note explaining that. I promise, I will understand :)
What can I do to help my son/daughter when they are stuck?
There are a number of resources online that may help you be able to explain, or talk though the concepts better with your child. If you were with us during CDL last year you might have logged in to BIMath.com. We use this site in class and there are many terrific, helpful tools for parents there.
I'll also send home some helpful info every time we start a new chapter, and remember... we have the WHOLE ENTIRE YEAR to learn this stuff. I don't expect the kids to know how to do everything in September. If I'm worried about your child's progress, I will make sure you know.
The way most of us learned math was through memorization and repetition. And if you can remember... most of us hated math - many still do! It was treacherous and boring. Educators and mathematicians have realized that MATH isn't boring, the way we used to teach math made it that way. The new model in math education - whether you are using Bridges, California Math, or Big Ideas - is much more interactive and really supports the learners' UNDERSTANDING of math, numbers, and logic. Yes, there are times when it won't make sense to you. And those are frustrating times. If there is ever something your child can't get through on their own, and you don't feel like you can help, send them to class the next day with a note explaining that. I promise, I will understand :)
What can I do to help my son/daughter when they are stuck?
There are a number of resources online that may help you be able to explain, or talk though the concepts better with your child. If you were with us during CDL last year you might have logged in to BIMath.com. We use this site in class and there are many terrific, helpful tools for parents there.
- www.bimath.com << electronic text book, videos, games, flashcards, assessment scores
- www.sumdog.com << math games - great for math skills practice
- www.prodigy.com << another fun math games site, free accounts
I'll also send home some helpful info every time we start a new chapter, and remember... we have the WHOLE ENTIRE YEAR to learn this stuff. I don't expect the kids to know how to do everything in September. If I'm worried about your child's progress, I will make sure you know.