Students are working hard to understand long division. We have been over the process many, many times, and some are still struggling to get this multi-step process. I finally resorted to Khan Academy for some help (Sometimes it just takes a different voice to get the point across.). It seemed to help in the short term, and after some more peer tutoring (pictured above), some Hoggatteers appears to make progress.
Long division is a difficult process, but usually fourth graders can pick it up with a little instruction. I think I am having to work more at it, this year, because we still have so many who have not mastered their multiplication facts.
Long division is a difficult process, but usually fourth graders can pick it up with a little instruction. I think I am having to work more at it, this year, because we still have so many who have not mastered their multiplication facts.
Is it possible students did not believe me when I told them that
all of the math would hinge on multiplication skills?
all of the math would hinge on multiplication skills?
Below is the first Khan Academy video we watched. Some students wanted to do more on this amazing website, where they can earn "badges" and "power points" by working through videos and quizzes. I do not currently enroll individual students because of the Khan Academy's age rules, but parents can enroll their own children. Just go to the website, and follow the instructions for enrolling. Click on the box that says, "Parents, start here." This is a website that can support your child through high school and college.
| | After a couple of days of this type of instruction, practice, and peer tutoring, several students appear to be lighting up with understanding. It has been a long time coming, and at times it has been frustrating to both teacher and students. I am reminded that it is not easy to climb a mountain, but it's that much more rewarding when you reach the peak. We will certainly appreciate the work we have extended when we look down and see how far we have come! |
