Schools use standardized testing to assess student progress in math, reading and other subjects. According to the 2015 Programme for International Student Assessment, a standardized test that compares similar subjects between countries across the world, the U.S. is falling behind in mathematics. You may have noticed a similar trend among your kids. Here are some ways you can help them improve their math scores:
Talk with the teacher
Most parents have not taken a math class in years and don't have the knowledge to provide assistance to their high school-aged kids. This can be frustrating, as you may feel like you are letting your kid down. Don't fret - there are ways to get around this. Talk to your kids' teachers to learn how they are doing in math. Ask what particular areas they could use help in, and then establish a tutoring schedule. The teacher might be able to provide extra assistance, but if not, the educator can recommend another resource. Many schools have tutoring programs where local college kids are available to assist high schoolers in a variety of subjects in the interest of helping the younger ones earn good scores on college entrance exams. Make use of these tools so your children are well-versed in math and can perform to the best of their abilities when it comes time to take the State Standardized Exams.
Emphasize the importance of relaxation
While overachieving can be a great sign that your kids want to excel in school, it can also come with a price: stress! Having anxiety about doing well on standardized testing can lower students' scores. It is normal and even healthy to have a few butterflies the day of, but make sure your kids are not spending days or weeks up late studying and worrying about the exams. Emphasize the importance of sleep, especially in the days leading up to the test, and let your kids know that you will love them regardless of their score. Knowing that you support them no matter what is a positive boost in your kids' academic performance.
Do math every day
Many people realize that not practicing a language every day can lead do forgetting even the basics. The same is true for math - daily usage can greatly improve your children's understandings of every aspect of the subject. Make sure your kids are doing their math homework diligently and that they ask for help if they are having trouble. Sometimes, working together with friends is beneficial, as each person has a unique understanding of the problems and tasks at hand. Pals can help one another out so long as they are doing the work and not just chatting. If you want to get involved, see if you can follow along with the math homework as it progresses. If you learn at the same rate as your teen, you can work together to build knowledge by using flashcards, doing workbook pages and completing homework.
Your kids will greatly improve their math scores with all the at-home support.
