
Most parents assume that their kids are getting poor grades because they are not paying attention in class or working as hard as they should. But this is often not the case. One of the major causes of poor performance especially in math is lack of knowledge on the basics. Math is a subject that builds upon previously learned concepts. Check with your child and see if they have a problem with concepts learned in previous grades. Are formulas and signs confusing them? How about their confidence? Do they believe they can do well in math? Self doubt is one of the main reasons students are unable to solve simple concepts that they know. Listen to them. Pay attention to their attitudetowards the subject. Gathering this facts will be critical in correctly implementing step three.
All good teachers know their students weak and strong points in a certain subject. After getting your childs reasons, its now time to communicate with their teacher. What areas does she/he think need improvement? Where does your child seem to have been left behind? Most teachers are even able to provide a detailed list of topics and sections if worked on could result to better grades and understanding.
Unless you are well conversant with the curriculum, its important to hire a qualified tutor for your child. The last thing you want is to teach them and confuse them further. This is the most important step because you will take the feedback from your child, the list of topics from their teacher and provide the tutor with a clear guideline of what your child needs. You will be shocked by the difference the right tutor can make, and not just in the grades, but overall attitude in math. Great tutors know how to work with students in a way that boosts confidence. If your child does not have a tutor already, reach out to us by clicking the button below and we will be sure to get you the best.
4. If instead of hiring a tutor you choose to work with your child on their weak points, stay updated on the curriculum changes.
Quizzes and tests count for a great percentage of the overall grade. It important that your child is working with someone in the days leading up to a test to ensure that they are not studying the wrong way. It is very easy to understand some math concepts incorrectly without the right guidance. You also want to ensure that they are actually studying and getting encouragement when they seem to get frustrated. Remember that they need to walk into the test room with confidence or else they may find it difficult to solve the simplest of questions due to panic.