by Marie B

Created on: August 24, 2007

You Can Help Your Child With Math!

The thought of having to help your child in math need not be a hair raising experience! As a tutor and former math teacher, I can honestly tell you that helping your child with math can be a motivating and enriching experience not just for your child, but for you as well! Even if you do not know much about math! The following are suggestions for helping your student obtain a fantastic grade in math:

The math textbook and syllabus -

Take a look at your child's math textbook. If they cannot bring the textbook home, get the name of the textbook from the teachers syllabus (entire course plan and classroom procedures. It may be under another title, such as "class requirements") and take a look at the text either online (if possible) or at your local library. The syllabus is typically handed out during the first week of school. Sometimes the teacher requests the parent sign it. Ask your child for it.

Look at how the book is laid out, how the topics are presented, how it is related to the syllabus. If you have time, read the beginning of the book (preface). Authors usually explain how the book is laid out, and where to find specific information.

What to look for in the syllabus:

- It's not a bad idea to make a copy of all of your child's syllabuses and keep them in a folder. At the very least, write down the teachers phone number, and office hours. Keep it nearby, in case you need to have a conference with the teacher.

- Classroom procedures and expectations - most teachers will tell you specifically what they expect from the students. If they are expected to keep a notebook, you should make sure your child has everything the teacher wants them to have.

- Exam dates, if there are any listed. Usually you can get an idea when exams are. Mark them on your calender, and remind your child of upcoming exams. Ask them how they are preparing for the exam/quiz. For example: If you know your child will have a quiz every Friday, you can ask them on Wednesday how class is going, and if they are ready for their quiz on Friday. Ask if they need help if you think they aren't ready.

- Take a look at the topics, determine if there are any topics you might find challenging. It helps to know ahead of time what the student will be facing, and try to prepare yourself, just in case they need help.

Now that you know your child's textbook, and the syllabus:

Make sure they allot their time wisely for studying math. Math can be time consuming if they leave it to the

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