Tag: parenting

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Best Study Strategies for Math

I have been asked over and again, “How do you study for math?”. In elementary school, students used flashcards and games a lot. However, when a student hits the preteen stage, they are not interested in the simple math games.

I have told students and parents this simple study method for math, especially for classes like Pre-Algebra and higher.

Here are two items that are my secret weapons:

Image result for paper and pencil

Step One: Gather paper and pencil.

Step Two: Get your notebook from class. (Another key: the student must take notes in class.)

Step Three: Write the problem on the paper. Try to work the problem on the blank paper. If you get stuck, go to your notes. Work the problem following your notes.

Step Four: Repeat step three until you can do the problem without the notes.

This is a simple formula. However, this is what worked for me. Sometimes we need to get back to the basics.

Tutoring is wonderful because you can have one on one instruction for your child. However, not every person can do tutoring. Instructional videos from YouTube can help. I highly recommend www.khanacademy.com.

Try this method. I cannot guarantee it. I can only share what helped me as a student. I have also seen it help other students.

Good luck!

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Not So Perfect Mom

NOT SO PERFECT MOM

Yesterday was Sunday. I taught my morning classes without a hitch. I got everyone up to get ready for church….without a hitch.

I dropped off my husband for his security assignment at church. I decided I would grab an iced coffee at Starbucks. The drive through was packed, so we headed inside. I ordered my coffee. The guy that took my order was a manager, I think. He was trying to tell two other employees what to do while taking my order.

And so I waited for my coffee. The person who ordered after me got his order before me……no big deal.

The next person after me got their order……..I am agitated a bit.

The next person and three people in the drive through get their coffee……not I was frustrated.

My emotions kicked in, which is not a good thing in my case. I went to ask about my order, and no one knew about it. One of the baristas offered to make me a coffee quickly.

And I let my “hissy fit three year old self” take over. I was running late for church (I volunteer as a small group leader. I like to be there a little early.)

I wanted to make sure I paid for it, but the guys at the register told me I ordered a hot coffee. (I do iced coffee even in freezing temperatures.)

I walked out, stomping like a child.

A lady followed me out with my iced coffee. She was a customer. She told me to take it since they were going to have to throw it out anyway. I apologized to the sweet lady and to the boys.

I had thoroughly embarrassed myself. I even had a shirt on that said “Ya’ll Need Jesus”. I was the one needing Jesus!

To put icing on the cake, I drive up to church……and the lady who brought my coffee out, is walking into church the same time I was.

Again, I apologized and introduced myself. I had no excuse. I had messed up. Our church has this motto: “No Perfect People Allowed”. Boy, did I live that during those few minutes!

All morning I dwelled on it….embarrassed and frustrated at myself. When I told my husband how I felt, he gave me some wisdom. I had apologized to the people who were affected by my rampage. I will apologize next time I am at the Starbucks. But, I needed to move on. Pick myself up out of the ick I was wallowing in…..and move on.

So I will wake up, and move on. I will keep moving towards God’s purpose for my life.

And I know that I will always fit in at my church……..since no perfect people are allowed.