I did however, have a stern talk with my class about the importance of doing their math assignments at home. I usually give them time in class to work on their problems but yesterday they were excessively talkative. I had previously warned them that if this were the case they would not get class time to work on it so as they kept talking, I revoked the privilege of working on it in class and made it strictly homework. I had a total of 9 kids out of 24 that actually completed the assignment. I don’t think the others even took it home. I was frustrated because it is a concept that they are struggling with and we are scheduled to test on it next week. I told them that I am willing to explain it and help them with it but they also have to put in some effort to practice it at home because that is the only way to master it.
I introduced them to three different ways of doing double and triple digit multiplication by double digit multiplication. I also had them take notes on the step by step instructions for each method to accompany the assignment in their math journals. It is a struggle every year and I get it, but if they continue to practice they will get it. However, they must practice on their own. Frontrowed.com has a current assignment that works on this skill if you would like your child to practice it over the weekend to help prepare them for the test on Monday. I did not assign it for homework, as I am not allowed to assign homework over the weekend. I told the students that did not have the math assignment done that they could work on it and turn it in next week for full credit but some “rushed through” and turned it in anyway. I still kept the students in from Fun Friday if they did not complete the worksheet from the night before to stress the importance of doing the independent practice.
Next week we will work on division of multi digit numbers which again will bring frustration I’m sure so brace yourselves. 😉
Have a BeUTEful Weekend!
