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Getting Involved at School > Troubleshooting Problems in Math and Science |
Troubleshooting Problems in Math and Science |
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1. Watch for multiple danger signs (such as those listed below) that persist for several months. Many students experience temporary "glitches" in the learning process, so exercise reasonable patience and help the child try to work the problem out. (For younger children, you many need to take action more promptly than for older ones.)
2. Keep a folder of papers that document your child's difficulty. 3. Schedule a conference with the teacher. Discuss the papers you've saved about your child's difficulties. Find out if special help is available at school. If necessary, ask to speak to the school psychologist or learning specialist. 4. If the school has not been using manipulatives in teaching mathematics (concrete objects such as blocks, rods, or geometric forms that teach number concepts), ask if this could happen or if some trained person could use them to work with your child during free time or after school. For older students, teachers usually offer extra-help periods. Let your child know you expect him to sign up (and show up) for any extra help that's offered. 5. If the school has not been using hands-on materials in teaching science (real objects and substances), ask if this could happen. Just reading about science is not adequate. In the short run, ask that a materials-based science program be offered after school. 6. If outside help is your only recourse, look for a clinic or experienced tutor who'll use many different approaches, other than worksheets, to get the concepts across. The "Troubleshooting Problems in Math and Science" section is modified and adapted with permission from: Helping Your Child Succeed in School: A Guide for Parents of 4 to 14 Year Olds, by Popkin, Youngs, and Healy, Active Parenting Publishers, Atlanta, Georgia, 1995. Refer to this excellent resource for more in-depth information. |
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