Algebra DVDs
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Geometry DVDs
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Algebra II with Trigonometry DVDs
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Calculus DVDs
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Entrepreneurship Course
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AskDrCallahan
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Homeschooling just seems like real work. Most parents say it is highly
rewarding work - but work just the same. Meeting the demands of
teaching along with all the other demands in life can be tough. The one
demand we hear parents pulling their hair out over is helping their
kids with tough subjects.Now we are offering a support package for any math, science, English, or literature curriculum.
We have on staff certified tutors in college calculus, English,
literature, and a variety of college science classes. So we are ready
to help!
Check it out! |
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Putting the Spark Back Into Burned Out Students
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Too many times students approach math as something to complete, get through, finish, and sadly, to toss away. All too frequently students approach their math courses without enthusiasm and carrying expectations no higher than expecting lots of mundane homework. It really is shame since math is so applicable and important for some of the most exciting things on Earth-including engineering, aerospace, sports,medicine, art, music, dance, and much more. In this article we discuss some ways to utilize this built-in interest for students. Take time to cater your math course to the interests and aspirations of your particular student and their level of understanding in math will soar.
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 Why is math important, anyway?
This is the all-encompassing question, isn't it? Have you ever seen a
student who didn't at one point or another want to know "why am I
having to learn this?"
Math is a very real, very applicable subject to be found in absolutely anything on Earth. For this reason, it is relatively easy to connect math to things that students already enjoy. Taking the time to identify the reality of math creates interest and connectivity for students. Real-life examples and a focus on the student's personal interest in a math course creates a relevancy that facilitates a lifelong understanding of the material. That is not to say I don't see homework and practicing problems as necessary---because I most certainly do---however, I think if we define the study of mathematics as the repetitive working of problems we have sorely missed the mark. What a great opportunity we have as home school educators to cater our math courses to the interests of our individual students, without sacrificing any of their solid math education.
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How do I create a Real-World study environment for my student(s)?
Here are just a few suggestions for steps you can take to make math more interesting for your student:
1. Make a list of your student's interests, likes, and aspirations. Do they want to be a doctor? A Fireman? A librarian? A horse trainer? Do they like cards? Playing video games? Launching model rockets? It doesn't matter what your student is in to, this is the point where we just take time to identify those things.
2. Next, try to look at these things from a math perspective. Take the table of contents in your math book and see which topics you can find in your list of fun activities and interests. For example, if your student is really into horses, you can use the Distance/Rate/Time Equation to calculate how fast the horse must have been running in the Kentucky Derby in order to complete the race in the time stated.
3. If you aren't especially excited about writing your own math problems like this, then just take time to connect math concepts to your student's interests-even if you aren't sure how specifically they go together. Then use a web search engine to locate math problems that apply. (Seriously, type in "Horses and Distance/Rate/Time math problems" you'll be surprised how well this works)
4. Use your Textbook and "edit" the example problems in your math book replacing the "4 badgers went down hill at 3 miles per hour" with horses instead of badgers and change the 3miles per hour to some number that horses would actually be running. The math will not change-that's the great thing about it. The way the problem needs to be worked will remain the same.
5. Worried about making up problems and not knowing if you got the right answer? That's ok, focus on learning the concept -again, use your book and make sure your problem has the same basic format as your example problems. Make sure your problem makes sense, and you can usually tell if the answer is correct. However, if you ever need help with any problems, contact us! That's what we're here to do.
Remember, math doesn't have to be boring. In fact, it is a great tool and a whole lot more exciting that most people think. For a list of resources you can use to make math more interesting, check out our website. We think you'll like what you find.
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 Happy Thanksgiving!
Stay connected with AskDrCallahan on Facebook and Twitter. We keep you updated on the newest courses being offered as well as blog about homeschool questions, suggestions on project ideas for your math courses, give reviews of math-themed movies, holiday-themed lesson plans and much more. Follow AskDrCallahan on Twitter and Facebook. |
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We're here to help you!
Sincerely,
Dale Callahan
AskDrCallahan
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