Dear Friends & Neighbors,I have a concern about our youngsters grasp of basic math concepts. In a time where there is a calculator on every computer, cell phone, and desk, all of us tend to rely on these tools rather than performing basic math operations in our heads.
For a campaign tool, I have chosen a simple ruler to both get my message out, and help reinforce basic math concepts. A ruler can be used for measuring distance, as a straight edge, but also as a number line. It is my hope that parents will take some time to show their children how to add and subtract using the number line, and also introduce fractions in an easy, visual way.
Math SOL scores are often less than we would like to see. I feel that a big part of the problem stems from our students lack of a basic understanding of elementary mathematics principles. I encourage parents to help their children and the schools by reinforcing these basic math principles at home. Below are a few ideas that you can use in addition to using my ruler as a number line.
- Teach your child to count out coins.
- Teach your child to read time on a circular clock with hands, not just on a digital one.
- Encourage your child to help you in the kitchen with measuring using measuring spoons and cups.
- Make math fun, and use it every day - do basic math functions without a calculator!
Have a wonderful back to school week!
Peggy Clark
Candidate for Frederick County School Board
Red Bud District
Have questions or concerns? E-Mail me at friendsofpeggyclark@verizon.net
