IXL, Partners, and

Math Practice

We have been working on finding the AREA of shapes.  The formula base x height was easy enough to remember, but when asked to find the area of more complex shapes, we needed a lot more practice.  As it turns out, that’s easy enough to accomplish these days!  With our IXL program, kids are solving problems with a partner (both kids MUST participate!) and they are not only having a great time, they are figuring out a LOT as they move through the problems.  Using a dry erase marker, they work directly on the problem and are able to see every aspect of what they are doing as they work.  What happens when they get a problem incorrect?  Well, frankly, that’s one of my favorite moments.  It means they have a HUGE opportunity to learn exactly what they did wrong, and how they should do it differently the next time.  It’s so important for them to understand that making a mistake is not only okay, it can help you learn MORE!  These work sessions are pretty spectacular.  They offer a judgment-free zone where asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, rather, it’s a sign of strength.  Helping one another solve problems make them better students, but more importantly, it makes them better human beings too. 

I would highly recommend trying IXL at home or at the library (IXL.com).  It’s a great way for them to practice things they are finding difficult.  They offer a remarkable array of topics to choose from.  Let me know if you need your child’s user name and password.  Enjoy!