It feels just like yesterday I was setting up the classroom to welcome students, and WOW two months have flown by already.  I am happy to report that all new arrivals (me included) are settling into the new school environment and adjusting to the new procedures.

In Language students were challenged to communicate what was unique about their learning environment.  Have a look and see where our students learn (shared from their perspective).

With Math it has been a slow start….We are working to refresh our minds and recall what we have learned in the past.  It is important to identify where the students are before rushing in to a lot of new content.  I am currently working with FIRST STEPS MATH to identify any misconceptions students may have in order to help them move forward.  The first misconception I’m waging war on is —the negative math thought— “I’m not any good at Math.”

If you know a student dislikes math because they believe they are “no good” please contact me so we can help them improve.  I say we, because it really is more successful when it’s a  team approach.  Often students are not reviewing math materials at home,or they feel there is no one around that can help them with the content.

Please check to make sure your student is reviewing and practicing math at home by checking for the following;

1. Make sure they are using their Math Practice book at home (homework from this book is assigned at least every two days). This book provides great practice questions and at the beginning of every topic there is a At Home Help section that reviews key concepts.

2. Are they reviewing class materials and lessons (all lessons I teach in my room are posted to our class networking site, Edmodo, and are in a PDF friendly format).

3.  Did they register for Homework Help online.  The Ontario Government has subscribed to an online Math Help site where students can get help from live tutors (who are certified Ontario teachers) for free.   There are a lot of great resources on this site besides the live tutor, so much so that I plan on using it in class as well.

3.  AND, all students could benefit from additional practice.  One site that I suggest students practice with is KHAN ACADEMY.  I really enjoy this site as the practice starts basic and builds  to more advanced math concepts.  It even tracks their progress and awards them badges for different achievements.

I still have so much more to share , and now that I’m starting to feel settled I will be sharing on a regular basis (to my students – would you share your thoughts on the start of the year with a comment). Be sure to visit back often to see what we’re accomplishing @ PDCS. 

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