Greetings,
According to recent test scores from the KeyMath-Revised, my 14yo dd has a LD in math (basic concepts 66%ile, operations 23%ile, applications 42%ile). We began using Singapore Math levels 3B and 4A at the beginning of this school year. She is already familiar with many of the concepts at this level and she can demonstrate this knowledge following review of the concept. However, when she works independently, she continues to make “simple” errors, i.e.; solving for perimeter when asked for area, failing to regroup correctly, confusing centi- (100) for milli- (1000), adding instead of subtracting, etc. She made so many of these types of errors on her last test that she failed it. When I have her rework the problems, she is almost always able to identify and correct her mistakes.
So how long do we stay at this level? Do we move on or do we continue to work at this level to “over-learn”? Even though we really like SingaporeMath, I wonder if a program like the “Key to….” series, which focuses on just one concept like fractions, wouldn’t serve her better.
Comments and recommendations are appreciated. Thank you!
Blessings, teresa
Re: Math programs
Thanks to a very good suggestion from a fellow teacher, I have started using a math “toolbox” with my students. It is just a spiral notebook. Each time we cover a different concept such as area and perimeter, my students put the example and practice problems into their notebook along with a definition of the concept. This way, when they are taking a test or doing an independent lesson, they can refer to their toolboxes for additional help. It gives them independence. They don’t have to be asking me anymore how to do things, and they become responsible for their own work instead of relying on someone else to mark it wrong. The reality is that many LD or even those who struggle with math can’t remember everything, especially when they’re in a test situation. They need “tools” to rely on, and they’re learning to solve they’re own problems. My students really like it, and they are being more successful. We also get to move faster through the curriculum. I hope this helps.
Re: Math programs
In my district- we call this a Resource Notebook. It is a great idea and when it is done well it workd beautifully.
Robin
Re: Math programs
Hi Lisa,
No, Singapore Math is the actual math program used in the country of Singapore which is ranked No. 1 in the world in math test scores. You can check out the program at http://www.singaporemath.com. There is also an egroup at [email protected]. I would also encourage you to use the Search feature of this bulletin board and also the Parenting LD bulletin board for additional input about Singapore.
Blessings, momo
Could it be test taking skills as opposed to math knowledge? I say that because she can find her own mistakes. Maybe you could try giving her a highlighter and have her highlight what she is supposed to do. I know some people highlight all the operation signs e.g., addition, subtraction.
My son took the Woodcock Johnson after first grade and almost all the problems he got wrong were because he did the WRONG operation correctly.
Beth