I am working on pre-algebra with a 13 yo seventh grader. He is very mathematical when working problems in his head. He understands the computing of the problems. BUT he forgets things like remembering to check his signs (negative, positive) and remembering to invert the decimal when dividing fractions. Once reminded he can complete the problem correctly. What are some strategies for helping students remember things like this (sort of like a string around his finger)?
TIA,
Dawn
Re: Strategies for remembering to double check work
This applies to any skill, I think, even though I have most familiarity with it in reading. If a kid double checks, monitors him/herself in anyway (esp some way that I have taught) then I make sure to reinforce it. I like the way you went back and checked that. (Definitely you praise specifically.)
—des
Double check system
My son is supposed to literally put double check marks in the top right of his papers. The first check is placed if he remembers to fill in all blanks (like his name!) and answer all questions. The second check is placed if he has reviewed (double-checked) his work! Seems corny, but his second grade teacher adopted for her whole class! :)
Well, I work on Pavlovian conditioning.
A week ago I was working with a calculus student before his final. You always have to remember to add the constant C to an integration. So, every time he says the answer I wait a second, then if he doesn’t say it, I make some sort of loud noise or other (beep, buzzer, slap the table, etc.) and say PLUS C. Sure enough, after about five problems, I wait a second and he jumps in “plus C!”
With others, every time they answer a problem, I ask “Are you finished?” and then they check.
If you are very very consistent with this, after a while it does become a habit.