Khan Academy - Coaching Update

So far, seven students have signed up for Khan Academy!  Some have spent a lot of time with the website, fulfilling their mathematical curiosities.  I mentioned this website at conferences, but I wanted to send you a reminder.  This is a free, not-for-profit website, and it allows your child some choice with what and how much to learn during a particular session.  Again, take a few minutes to observe the site, and if you're interested, add me as a coach.  My coach name is brandonjamesbauer@gmail.com.  Let me know if you have any questions about signing up.

Multiplication Game of the Week - Time for a "Change"

Great news!  The class averaged 82% on their last 50-facts multiplication test.  That is an 8% increase from three weeks ago!  Additionally, this is the earliest one of my classes has scored over 80%!  Keep it up!

This week's math game is called Diaper Derby from multiplication.com.  You have the option to choose any multiple or a range of multiples (i.e. 2-9 or 3-12).  To begin, customize your baby racer.  Next, answer the questions correctly and quickly to advance your racer.  Simply finish the race in first place to win!

Diaper Derby

As we prepare for the coming weeks, students will be learning and practicing how to solve multidigit multiplication problems. Again, the more fluent students are with their facts, the easier solving problems like this will be.  Best of luck, and keep practicing!

Multiplication Game of the Week!

Even though the kids have been dilligently working on mastering 4th grade concepts involving decimals (including ordering them, comparing them, adding them, and subtracting them), we still have multiplication on the brain.  As we work through 4th grade, I expect students to be completely fluent with all of their facts by the end of the year.  It is SO important that the students even have a "Team Achievement" card that could be earned by showing proficiency.  Take a look at this week's game to help motivate your child to practice.  After all, I've heard once or twice that practice makes perfect.

PENGUIN JUMP!

This game is fantastic for three main reasons.  First, the kids are able to race against each other if they wish, or they are able to play against the computer.  Some kids LOVE challenging their friends while other prefer challenging themselves.  Second, this mixes several different facts rather than just multiples of a specific number.  (for those who are ready).  Last, the facts are a little bit more difficult, involving numbers times 10-12 as well as 0-9.  Enjoy this game, and check back soon for another featured math game!