Hurry up and wait

Children seem to be in a rush to finish a test..like they really have somewhere to go. Don't they have to wait for everyone to complete the test anyway. So, while they are waiting, why not go back over and check the work they have completed.

Unlike other subjects, in Math, one incorrect calculation on a problem will cause you to miss the entire problem. Sorry, there is no partial credit. So, attention to detail is an important trait that must be aquired and used in the subject of Math. If this is achieved in the early academic years, then it will not be so difficult when the child enters high school.

Yes, the goal that is to be achieved in math is speed and accuracy. If you can get ALL the answers correct and are swift about doing it, then sure why not be a speed demon. But, if the child is missing problems that he/she obviously should have gotten correct then you first should investigate why the problems were missed.

There are four main reasons to answer a problem incorrectly: don't know the meaning of a term used in the question, don't understand the diagrams used in the illustration, don't know how to solve the problem, or made a trivial mistake. If it is due to the latter then it's time to put into affect Operation Sloooooooooowdown. This is where you implement tactics that will cause the child not to want to rush anymore.

For the most part telling a child that they need to go back and check their work does not change the situation. Don't they still rush through the test? They hear you, but don't quite get it. So, I have found that showing them the error of their ways and telling them is much more successful. Once they see their mistakes over and over again, they can't deny that there is a problem. Kids do not like to be proven wrong.

Here are just a few suggestions. I'd be happy to hear what tactics you use.

1. Correct all missed problems on the test, hw, and class assignments. This means redoing problems and identifying where the mistake was made. Have them tell you where they went wrong. This type of troubleshooting is beneficial in that when the same type of question arises (and believe me...they will see it again) they will recognize how to obtain the answer.


2. For every answer they miss due to trivial mistakes take away 5 minutes (or whatever you see fit) rom the tv, computer, cell phone, etc. Stick to arrangement until you see improvement. Children need to know that you are serious and consistent.


3. Be firm and not their friend. That may mean temporarily taking away football, dance, computer, sleepovers, etc. to help them understand that their education is the number one priority.
4. Lastly, be encouraging and show enthusiam when your child exhibits improvement. Acknowledging their efforts and boosting their ego goes a long way. They need to hear positive reinforcement to know that you are happy with their improvement.

Raise the bar and set high expectations. You know your child can do the work...they have told you this and the teachers have told you this. But, their actions prove differently because of carelessness. Don't give up if you don't see positive results immediately. Each child will respond differently. Your child is depending on you to "punk out". Well, prove them wrong. The most important thing is to be consistent and reinforce the good that they are doing.