Press Release
Getting a Math Checkup Makes Sense
Mathnasium Math Learning Center Offers Back-to-School Tips
Los Angeles - August 18, 2006
Many parents follow a routine when it comes to preparing their children for a new school year. They shop for notebooks and pencils and buy crisp, clean clothes. But when it comes to preparing for the academic challenge of the coming year, parents may not know where to turn.
Now, Mathnasium, a math-only, after-school learning center, offers a simple way for parents to test whether their children's math skills are where they should be - before it's too late.
"Math can be intimidating, there's no doubt about it," said Larry Martinek, chief instructional officer for Mathnasium. "But doing some simple math exercises before starting school can help eliminate some of the fear and confusion - and boost a child's confidence."
If children are able to answer some basic questions mentally - without having to use a pencil and paper - then they are likely on their way toward developing a good understanding of math, or what Mathnasium calls "Number Sense," Martinek said.
"But if your child can't, heed this as a warning that your child may need help, before math becomes frustrating and a subject to avoid," Martinek said.
To test a child's math-readiness, parents can perform a simple checkup. Ask the following questions, depending on the student's grade level. A child going into fourth grade, for example, should be able to answer the fourth-grade question as well as the third- and second-grade questions.
- Second Grade: Name 7 combinations of numbers that add up to 10.
- Third Grade: How much is 99 plus 99 plus 99?
- Fourth Grade: Count by 1 3/4 from 0 to 7.
- Fifth Grade: Which is greater: 9/10 or 18/19? Explain your answer.
- Sixth Grade: Halfway through the second quarter, how much of the game is left?
- Seventh Grade: How much is 6 1/2 % of 250?
- Pre-Algebra: On a certain map, 6 inches represent 25 miles. How many miles do 15 inches represent?
- Algebra: When you take 3 away from twice a number, the answer is 8. What is the number?
For answers, see www.mathnasium.com/answers.
"Children need to be taught math in a way that makes sense to them," Martinek said. "That's what we do at Mathnasium."
Mathnasium offers two free booklets, Math Tips for Parents--Grades K to 5 and Math Tips for Students--Grades 6 and Up.
To receive a booklet, or for more information on how to boost your child's math skills, please call 1-877-MATHNASIUM or visit the company's Web site at www.mathnasium.com.
