Nightly practice of math facts is comparable comparable to expecting your child to read smoothly or fluently. When students memorize addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts it gives them the ability to process numbers in complex problems quickly and allows them to focus more on the problem at hand and not simple computation.
Students should be practicing 5 minutes nightly. If they are just being introduced to multiplication for the first time this year, then they should start with multiplication. If they have some experience with multiplication but are not fluent, they should continue with this to make them even stronger. If your child is close to being fluent in multiplication they can introduce division and become fluent in both of these areas. Once a student is fluent in both multiplication and division they are then introduced to more complex math.
This year we will be using XtraMath. This is an online program that allows for quick repetitive practice of math facts. XtraMath is adapted for Mac and PC users and most tablets and smart phones have this app.
Please make sure your child is doing XtraMath for at least 5 minutes nightly. You will complete a Math Fact Practice Page and students will turn the page in on Friday to hold them accountable for their practice.
I will be taking participation homework grades two ways. They will receive a weekly grade for completing the Math Fact Practice Page. I will also occasionally check their progress on XtraMath and take a small participation grade from the site. These are just small grades since the true proof of their progress comes when they are able to preform well on class assignments and tests because they know their facts and can do correct calculations for the given problems.
Below is the weekly Math Fact Practice Page. If the page is ever misplaced or forgotten below a link. Please feel free to assess this as needed.
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