As we progress through our conference week, I thank all parents for being so punctual. It's tough fitting in 32 conferences and it makes it easier when everyone is on time. I also thank parents for their patience if they have to wait outside for a minute or so while I wrap things up with a previous conference.
Some common themes I see with fourth grade students are math facts and reading fluency. Multiplication facts are the basis for many, many math skills in fourth grade. The term for this is scaffolding, as we can't build higher math skills if we don't have a solid foundation in the basics. How can we divide or reduce fractions if we don't know how to multiply?
To practice our math facts, specifically times tables, we have been studying one group at a time, such as 4 times tables this week. After every group (a week or so), we take a large quiz (100 questions on all facts). I chart the student's progress and tell them how they improved.
Our usual routine is to use triangle flash cards or play a multiplication game, then take a 100 question quiz on that specific times table. Sometimes I will ask students to think of 2 to 3 facts to make sure they know, as it's easier to focus on a few then 100!
Ask your child about triangle flash cards. Students love to use them because they are more dynamic than traditional flash cards and they get to make them themselves.
Stay tuned for the next post about reading fluency!
Image courtesy of www.newmanagement.com
