1) Take inventory of current material
Like anything else in life, taking a step back and taking inventory is always a smart step before embarking on any undertaking, and endeavoring to correct a math problem is no different. Taking inventory can help ease a student’s mind and empower them to take control of their math class moving forward. Looking through recent quizzes and tests and reviewing recent lessons is a great place to start. Identifying confusing concepts as well as areas of comfort is the perfect first step for a struggling math student.
2) Backtrack through concepts to find holes
Math classes are structured much like an ancient pyramid: each new concept is built upon the foundation of the previous concept. It is for this reason that struggles in a math class can be compounding and seem to spiral out of control. Working backwards through lessons and assignments is a great way to identify the foundational holes and begin to correct them.
3) Re-train fundamental concepts to boost confidence
Once the problem concepts have been identified, actions have to be taken to correct them. Once the foundational issues are addressed, the subsequent math progressions will begin to come into focus. Many times, it is really the failure to understand a few basic concepts that is causing all the stress and trouble for a student. Once the base issues are addressed, most students start to gain confidence and get back into the flow of learning new concepts.
4) Open a dialogue with their teacher
If math problems persist, making contact with your child’s math teacher is a must. This not only shows the teacher that you are invested in your child’s success, but this opens a dialogue for parents to gain insight into how they can best help their student and address their deficiencies. If a teacher knows that a parent and child are willing to put forth extra effort to succeed, they are more likely to do so themselves.
5) Find a great tutor
Finding a talented math tutor can be the final step in getting a struggling student over the proverbial hump. Many students respond incredibly well as soon as they are put into a one-on-one setting. And when a student works consistently with their math tutor, the tutor learns how to best address the student’s needs and personalize their tutoring style to maximize results.
The Tutoring Company has a new tool called the TTC Student Profiler that helps us gain valuable insight into a student’s personality, learning process and academic strengths and weaknesses. We are able to use this information to find the best possible tutoring match for a student and address their deficiencies as effectively as possible. Fill out the form and let us start to help you today.