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About Mathematics Homework

• • While working on math problems at home, encourage your child to solve problems and record work in ways that make sense to him or her. Some children will use numbers and equations, some will use pictures or charts, others will use words, and many will use a combination of these methods. We want all students to use problem-solving methods that are meaningful to them.

• • If your child asks for your help in solving some of these problems, it may be helpful for you to ask him or her questions such as: What's a good place to start? Does this problem remind you of anything you've done in school? What are you trying to figure out?

• • For story problems, these questions might be helpful: Can you draw a picture of what is happening in this problem? Can you tell me what is happening in this story? Do you think at the end of the story there will be more or fewer than there were at the beginning?

If you would like to share any thoughts with me about how your child is approaching a homework task, please feel free to send me a note. If a task seems too difficult or is confusing, please let me know so I can address the issue. I look forward to working with you and your child throughout the year.

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