Studying our Country and Math Facts!

Today, we began a look into our social studies curriculum and got a feel for what we are going to focus on as we learn all about the land around us.  It is going to give you a chance to "travel" around the country without actually going anywhere (although a trip to Alaska would be nice about now!).  We will study each region in detail eventually, but for right now, we are just trying to set our brains up for what's to come...like tasting a bit of the frosting on your birthday cake when no one is looking!
 
Speaking of your brains, did you know that the more you let your brain see something in many different ways and in different places, the better you will learn it?  Have you passed your math fact levels this week?  We've taken three tests over math facts and you should be passing the levels each time, if you are using the time I give you efficiently (that means getting right to the task at hand).  Here is the format for passing through the levels of math facts, including some tips for how to pracice at home:

OTTER CREEK LEVELS

 

MULTIPLICATION

One minute tests (level A - X)

Two minute tests (pass goal 3 times; different tests)

One minute tests (11s and 12s)

Two minute tests (11s and 12s)

 

DIVISION

One minute tests (level A - W)

Two minute tests (pass goal 3 times; different tests)

One minute tests (11s and 12s)

Two minute tests (11s and 12s)

 

MIXED PRACTICE

 

HOW TO PASS EACH LEVEL:

1.  Set personal goals for yourself.  Where do you want to be by Halloween?  Diwali?   Kwanzaa?

2.  Make plans for how to reach each goal.  How often will you study your facts?  Will you use a website or flashcards?  Who will help you? 

3.   Take time to reflect on what you've done.  Do you want to change your goals?  Are other things getting in the way of your studying?  How far have you come? Are you celebrating when you pass?

So, how do you practice?  You should have all the level tests and your Otter Creek folder in your Pendafile.  You could ask a parent or a sibling to practice with you at home.  Teach them how to "POP" with you.  It is a VERY effective method for learning the facts and it doesn't take long at all. We can put a video of it on our blog so you can see it.  SHOULD WE DO THAT?  Would YOU want to be a star in that video?   Really, if you spend only a few minutes each night studying the facts (again, everything you need is in the Pendafile - except your smartpal, but you don't really need that), and then use the time I give you in class, that should be all you need.  However, there are sights you can use to practice at home.  Search on Google for "math fact flashcards" and there are sites where you can make your own flashcards.  I even have a few links down the margin under math sites.  Just type in a few of the facts that you are struggling with and PRESTO! you are set with some personalized flashcards and on your way to passing every level you want to!

IF you haven't been passing levels this week, there is a reason and a solution.  See me if you have any questions....or I will see YOU...during "POP" time or other times during the day!  Yes, this may include "Free Fun Time!"  "Free Fun Time" is something you earn if you have all homework done and you are making progress with math fact work.    Make it happen!  You can do it!!