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Kid math problems are something all parents
should be ready to work on. There may be situations when the
parent may not know how to complete the kid math problems.
To avoid this, incorporate the main points in the math problems
to identify the appropriate information, to identify a strategy
and then to use the strategy appropriately.
While working out math problems, you first have to know how
much your kid knows about the topic. Look at the errors committed
in homework and quizzes to find out what went wrong and then
brush up on those problems before working on the math problem.
Then get the child comprehend the question by identifying
the key words that may tell her what she has to do in the
sum; addition, subtraction, division or multiplication. The
words that signify addition are sum, total, in all and perimeter.
Difference, exceed and how much more are the words that signify
that the problem is one based on subtraction. The clue words
for division sums are share, distribute and quotient. And
for multiplication, the clue words are product, area, times
and total.
Once you know what exactly has to be done, then you have
to get the child to comprehend the question with these words.
For her easy reference, write all the formulae related to
math that she has learnt so far in a list. She can then have
this list as a ready reckoner for her to refer to while working
out math problems.
Be as adjustable with the child when starting the calculation
of math problems. This is because the child may not understand
the fundamental concepts in the beginning and may appear to
be guessing. At first show them the steps for the math problem
and allow them the usage of the calculator. Once they get
the first math problem right with your help and the help of
the calculator, the child will develop more interest in working
out the math problems!
Another effective means of getting the child understand the
math problems is to personalize the word problems. This means
that the math problem has to be reworded to relate to 'real
life' or family life situations. By doing this, the child
can visualize themselves in the problem, and thus understand
it's application. Enhance the usage in math in as many day
to day activities as possible. You could hold routine practice
with numbers by incorporating math transactions in as many
situations as possible. Don't only give them their allowance;
have them calculate and budget out their monthly expenses
and the occasional purchases and gifts for friends and family.
This sharpens their brain in the four fundamental operations
of math.
Sometimes the usage of drawings or manipulatives helps the
child in understanding the math problem better. You may come
across an occasional trick question in the math problem. Although
you may have worked out the sum, return to them occasionally
so that the child may recognize a trick question when he sees
one!
Whatever the method you employ to help the child understand
and to work out the math problem, it is very important that
you praise them for the effort put in working out the sums.
Celebrate their small victories with a clap as math problems
are extremely challenging and require sustained working memory,
analytical ability, math facts and writing. The skills taught
in math, like problem solving, mathematical reasoning and
applied rule-based learning are needed in most adult careers
and living.
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