Author: The Dropkick Math Team

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Learn Math

How To Give Children The Best Mathematical Start

How To Give Children The Best Mathematical Start

One of the most important things you can do for your child is to give them a strong foundation in mathematics. In younger children, teaching them early on how to count, add, subtract, and divide while keeping it fun and entertaining will help set them up for success in future schooling and beyond. Giving older children the gift of a math tutor if they are struggling can also help set them up for a successful future. 

It’s Not About Math Drills!

In order to give your child the mathematical start they deserve, it’s important that you first understand what that entails. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all about doing endless math drills! Below are some essential tips that should provide parents/guardians with a strong foundation for any child.  

Start with Counting: This one might seem obvious, but teaching children how to count is foundational for understanding basic mathematics. Help them learn their numbers 1-10 as well as counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s. Once they have mastered these, move on to addition and subtraction.

As with anything else in life, making learning fun will encourage children to stick with it! But, to make math fun, you may need to get creative. Try incorporating games or puzzles into your lessons or letting kids use technology gadgets. iPads or apps designed explicitly for elementary-level math practice can help to keep children entertained while learning. Many online resources offer ideas for hands-on activities that help make math concepts easy to understand. These tools can make learning more interactive and enjoyable while still providing a challenge.

Dropkick Math Academy is an online resource that offers an alternative to traditional math tutoring by making learning fun. We focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, proportional reasoning) while using game-based learning to boost students’ confidence in mathematics. By boosting a child’s confidence and making math more enjoyable to learn, you will give them one of the best mathematical starts they need for future success.  

How Mathematicians Got Inspired

It is always interesting to learn how others got their start in life and what helped shape their future. Many mathematicians have confessed that their love for math did not come from school teaching but rather from exciting puzzles and games given to them by family members at a young age. We are not suggesting that education does not play a role in inspiration. It can all be part of children getting a deeper understanding and appreciation for math. It is important not to underestimate the role of interactions in the home and the role of games and puzzles for children’s mathematical development and inspiration. 

We can see how inspiration can work in Sarah Flannery, a young woman who won the Europe Young Scientist of the Year award when she was 16. When asked what encouraged her in mathematics, she said that as a child, she was given puzzles to work on at home, which were important to her mathematics development alongside the math she was taught in the classroom. 

Math Manipulatives

When children are beginning to learn a new concept in mathematics, manipulatives can be extremely helpful. These objects allow students to touch and feel blocks, sticks or beads and are extremely helpful when teaching many math concepts like addition and subtraction. They give children a physical representation of what is happening in mental equations, making it easier for them to understand and develops their conceptual understanding.

Math manipulatives intend not to make children forever dependent on them but to use them as they work through complex problems. However, they do have their purpose as students grow through elementary and high school when a new concept is introduced. Older students often find manipulatives helpful when articulating their thought processes when trying to explain a complex concept. When a new concept is introduced, the process of developing understanding strengthens by connecting concrete manipulatives to visual and symbolic representations. When the student is able to connect the different representations to symbolic forms, they should be able to stop using the manipulatives. 

Encouraging Children

All children start off excited about learning mathematics, so parents/guardians must become a resource of encouragement. As adults, many mathematical ideas may seem obvious to us, but they can be fascinating for children. Take the time to marvel, encourage thinking, and challenge your child. This is one of the best ways to develop mathematical interest. By exploring patterns and ideas together, your child will develop a more profound passion for learning. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, parents/guardians are encouraged to join the classes with their children as we believe that great success can be achieved by learning together! Active participation in a child’s education is crucial for their academic success and overall development. Education experts have found that parental involvement leads to higher grades, improved behaviour in school, and greater education aspirations for the child. Additionally, parents play a crucial role in instilling essential values like hard work, determination, and self-discipline. 

Our tailored programs are specifically created for students and their parents/guardians to work together on understanding the building blocks of mathematics. After each class, parents are able to meet with their child’s teacher and get weekly feedback. 

We understand that life can be busy, so if the parent/guardian cannot attend classes with their children, the end goal remains the same: giving children the tools they need to thrive in their education and beyond.

Making It Fun!

Many parents often ask me about the best books to help children learn math. While some great resources are filled with math questions, I believe that children should not be sitting down and given extra math work at home. Math learning at home should be fun and engaging. There are many ways to make math learning fun, such as playing games, cooking with measurement, or going on a math scavenger hunt. Children actively engaged in math learning are more likely to retain the information and enjoy math more. So next time you’re looking for a way to help your child with math, ditch the math homework and find a way to make math learning fun!

For parents who may be looking for math programs in Toronto and the surrounding areas, Dropkick Math Academy has classes taught by certified teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs. So, why not use Dropkick Math to make math fun for kids and to support their learning? Get started today by learning more about our programs.

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Math Tutoring

Why Your Child’s Progress Report Is So Important

Why Your Child’s Progress Report Is So Important

After the initial flurry of back-to-school shopping and adjusting to a new routine, families often settle into a comfortable groove. But the first progress report can be a rude awakening. And, while it may be tempting just quickly to scan it and move on, it’s important to take the time to actually read through it and understand what your child is doing well in and where they need improvement. This may include math tutoring or extra study time in the evenings. 

For parents of elementary school students, progress reports are essential for monitoring their child’s academic progress. These reports, typically issued twice a year, measure a student’s progress in relation to the standards set by the Ministry of Ontario. In addition to providing information on academic skills like reading and math, progress reports may also include insights into a child’s social and emotional development. 

Nerve-Wracking

While receiving a progress report can be nerve-wracking for both parents and students, it is important to remember that these documents are meant to serve as a starting point for conversations with your child’s teacher about their progress in school. They aren’t solely reflective of your child’s intelligence or potential but rather their current growth and progress. 

Take the time to review the progress report with your child and discuss their strengths and areas for improvement. Then, work together to come up with strategies for continued progress in the future.  

Understanding Your Child’s Progress Report

Progress reports are a standard tool used by teachers to communicate a student’s progress in school. However, these reports can be confusing for parents who don’t know how to interpret them. A progress report may include various elements, such as how a child is progressing and comments from the teacher. It is important for parents to take the time to understand what each element means and how it relates to their child’s progress. By doing so, they can be better equipped to support their child’s academic journey. Progress reports can be a helpful tool, but only if parents take the time to understand them.

There are two main versions of the Elementary Progress Report Card:

  • Grades 1 to 6
  • Grades 7 and 8

Generally, many parents will see a lot of “Progressing Well.” Any child working towards learning goals and showing progression will fit under this umbrella. Since the pandemic has caused gaps in learning over the past few years, teachers have been instructed to make the umbrella even larger. This means that even if children are behind in their education, but are still working toward learning in class, then they are still housed under the umbrella of “Progressing Well.”

If your child has a “Progressing With Difficulty” statement on their report, it means they are not progressing in this subject. Research has shown that math and literacy were the two subjects affected the most by the pandemic. So, many students may be showing signs of falling behind in these two areas. If your child received a “Progressing With Difficulty” comment, it should be addressed immediately so that a plan can be developed to help fill the education gap. 

Look At Past Results

Previous progress reports and report cards may show that your child’s issues have re-appeared from last year. It is essential to keep an eye out for repeat problems and address them as soon as possible. Children usually struggle in one specific subject, so going back through their old reports can give you a better idea of any repeated patterns and help you break them. 

Parents who are involved in their child’s education may not even need a progress report to know how their child is doing in school. By getting involved and staying in contact with your child’s teacher, you can avoid report card stress and get any educational problems taken care of before they get out of hand. Regular math tutoring is one of the best ways to keep children on track. By working on math each week, children will become more confident and start to understand math operations more efficiently. 

An Education Crisis

While some educational interventions were able to help keep children on track in the interim, the overall effect of the pandemic is now being recorded as researchers conduct studies and EQAO test scores come in. So far, studies are showing that the coronavirus pandemic has caused alarmingly high learning losses in math and reading. This loss of education has been felt worldwide and is now reported as the worst education crisis ever recorded. 

Many children have been left with difficulty in learning math operations. However, the good news is that kids seem to rebound quickly once they regularly meet with their teachers and classmates. Teachers are doing everything they can to try and identify students and losses, ensuring they’re working with parents to get them back on track.

There is no timeline for how long this catchup will take, but the federal government has provided funding to assist with education by expanding summer programs and offering extra support to students who may need it.

How Dropkick Math Can Help

If your child brought home a progress report that wasn’t all good news, it is important to remember that it is just one snapshot of how a child is doing. They’re not meant to be an exhaustive list of everything wrong. And they shouldn’t be used as a way to compare one child to another. Progress reports are simply one tool that can be used to gauge a child’s progress and identify areas that need attention. So if you receive a less-than-perfect progress report for your child, take it in stride and use it as an opportunity to help your child get back on track. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we understand that the pandemic took a toll on many students and their learning. If your child’s progress report shows some concerning results, it may have been caused by the pandemic. Our programs are designed to help children overcome this loss in learning while boosting their confidence in mathematics. We offer game-based learning that will help your child boost their confidence in mathematics while having fun. Check out our math help services today!

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Math Tutoring

EQAO Test Scores Show Alarming Results For Ontario Students

EQAO Test Scores Show Alarming Results For Ontario Students

The EQAO scores are in, and they paint a concerning picture of the state of Ontario’s education. The Education Quality and Accountability Office, also known as the EQAO, is an organization in Ontario that assesses education quality in the province’s publicly funded schools. The EQAO administers standardized tests to students in grades 3, 6, and 9 in math and grades 3, 6, and 10 in literacy. This data is then used by the government and school boards to evaluate educational effectiveness and make changes to improve student achievement. 

According to the data, an alarming number of kids are struggling with basic literacy and numeracy skills. This is cause for concern, as these deficiencies could have significant implications down the road. Parents need to be aware of these troubling findings and take steps to help their children improve their academic performance. Math tutoring may be required for many Ontario students who have fallen behind in their education. 

Put On Hold

These EQAO scores are the first in two years since the previous ones were put on hold during the pandemic. With students bouncing back and forth between in-class learning and virtual classes, it was difficult for the province to perform the testing that is typically done each year. 

Educators and parents were eager to see the results this year because of the delay in testing. There was much speculation about how students would test after two years of disruption from the pandemic. With no testing available, it was unknown exactly how much school closures and transitions into virtual learning had affected students’ education. 

Math and Literacy Hardest Hit

It was thought that the learning loss would be hit hardest in math and literacy. A handful of studies pulled data from millions of students participating in computer-adaptive tests to estimate students’ learning growth during school closures and how much that growth rate was likely to slow over the following few years.   

Three studies even predicted that students might learn only half of what they normally would in a typical year. None of the research went far enough to find any specific skills students may have lost, such as content or foundations in math like number sense or fractions. However, these studies did help to show the possible overall impact that the pandemic had on students and their math learning. 

Experts believe math may be more sensitive to pandemic-related disruptions for a few reasons, including:

  • Teachers often find it more difficult to engage in effective math instructional practices via virtual learning. 
  • Stress related to the pandemic may worsen existing math anxiety in some students.
  • Math is almost always formally learned at school, as parents are often less well-equipped to help their children with their lessons. 

Verified Test Results

As expected, these various tests that were performed throughout the pandemic were verified with the EQAO test results.  In the primary division, only 59% of students met provincial standards in math, while in the junior division, it was just 47%. For grade 9, 52% meet provincial standards. While these numbers are concerning on their own, the results get even worse when looking even further. For grade 9 students, in 2018-2019 (the last EQAO tests performed), 75% met the provincial math standards. However, these new EQAO test results drastically drop to only 52%, meeting those standards. This is the most significant gap seen across the three groups of students tested. 

 

EQAO-Stats-graph

This is worrisome as grade 9 marks the start of high school, a time when students need to be more aware of their grades if they want to get into college/university. With only just over half of the students meeting provincial standards, it offers a bleak look into the future, where students will struggle to get into STEM-related career paths. 

Does The Assessment Affect Students’ Grades?

While the EQAO assessments may not significantly impact an individual student’s grade, they can provide valuable insights into the performance trends of students as a whole. By analyzing assessment results, teachers and administrators can identify areas where the majority of students are struggling, allowing them to tailor their teaching methods and lesson plans to better address these subjects. 

Assessment results can also reveal changes in student performance over time, providing valuable information for educators and parents about the success of certain teaching strategies or educational programs. While assessment results may not directly affect individual grades, they should still be regarded as valuable tools for evaluating and improving student performance overall.

What’s The Plan?

So now that these test results have been released, many parents are asking what is going to be done to help students catch up with their missed learning. While it may seem like there is no real plan to get things back on track, educators are working to implement measures to ensure that students can catch up on their education. Each school board is working to help students catch up from the lost learning experienced through the pandemic. 

The Ontario government has also released their Learning Action Recovery Plan, which is designed to help students who have been struggling in school catch up and get back on track. It invests heavily in tutoring support and includes a focus on reading, math and other foundational skills, as well as targeted initiatives to address unique barriers some students may face. This will help bridge students’ learning gaps, support academic success, and focus on overall mental health and wellness. Ontario’s plan is based on the latest scientific evidence and will provide students with the necessary resources to succeed.

At Dropkick Math, we proudly offer our math tutoring services as part of the Learning Action Recovery Plan. We have partnered with school boards throughout the province and are able to offer some students FREE programs. These programs are funded by the Ontario government and offer students math help services by certified Ontario teachers. 

Our programs help students boost their confidence while learning math operations. Our game-based learning offers a fun and engaging way to help those who experienced a gap in learning caused by the pandemic. Learn more about our programs and register your child for math tutoring today!

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Learn Math

Could Your Child’s Beliefs About Their Math Skills Affect Their Learning?

Could Your Child's Beliefs About Their Math Skills Affect Their Learning?

We all know that beliefs play a big role in our lives. They can dictate how we act, what we do, and even who we are as people. What you may not realize, however, is that beliefs also play a role in how we learn. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the connection between beliefs and learning and explore how they both work together to shape our overall understanding of the world around us. We will also discuss how at Dropkick Math Academy, we use the connection between beliefs and learning in our math tutoring programs. 

The Relationship

Beliefs and learning are inextricably linked. Our thoughts influence the way we learn, and our experiences shape our beliefs. This interconnected relationship is evident in both children and adults. For example, a young child who believes they are bad at math is likely to have difficulty learning new concepts. Conversely, an adult who believes that they can learn a new language will be more successful in their efforts than someone who doesn’t believe it’s possible. 

When we believe we can learn, we are more likely to succeed. When we believe that we can’t, we are more likely to give up. The next time you’re facing a challenging task, take a moment to think about your beliefs. Are they helping or hindering your learning? If they’re not helpful, try to change them. Beliefs are just thoughts–and thoughts can be changed. Once you understand how to change your beliefs, you can teach your child when they are facing a challenging task. 

The Types Of Mindset

Mindset is the set of beliefs and attitudes that your child may have about themself and their ability to learn. There are two main types of mindset. A fixed mindset is when they believe that their abilities are fixed. They may think they are not smart enough or not good enough at a particular skill. A growth mindset is when they believe that their abilities can be developed. They may not be good at something yet, but they know they can improve with practice. 

Mindset has been shown to impact motivation and learning. Children with a fixed mindset may give up more easily because they think they can’t improve. Children with a growth mindset are more likely to invest time and effort in learning because they believe they can get better. This just goes to show how vital mindset is for students because it can affect how resilient they are in the face of challenges and how much effort they are willing to put into learning. Students with a growth mindset are more likely to persist in the face of difficulties, persevere through setbacks, and see mistakes as opportunities to learn.

Changing Mindset

American psychologist Carol Dwek has changed the minds of millions of people through her work on mindset. She argues that the growth mindset will allow a person to live a less stressful and more successful life. 

Carol and her teams of researchers have conducted various studies showing that the ideas we hold about ourselves matter. These studies say something important about how fixed beliefs impact many aspects of life, including how children learn.

One landmark study from Carol Dwek showed the impact of different beliefs on students’ learning. The study analyzed grade 7-8 math students. The students were divided into two groups that differed in how they thought about themselves. All students went to the same school and had the same math teachers. 

It was found that the students who held positive beliefs were in an upward direction in their achievement. However, those with a fixed mindset stayed consistent and were lower achieving. Many other studies have since duplicated these results, showing the importance of mindset at any age. 

How To Help A Child Change Their Mindset

If your child struggles with self-beliefs, they may need help changing their mindset. Try the following sets to help set them up for a healthier mindset. 

– Identify their triggers. Ask them what situations or tasks make them feel like they’re not good enough. When do they start thinking negative thoughts about themselves? 

– Help them reframe their thinking. For example, when they say they are not smart enough, correct them and tell them to repeat after you, “I’m willing to put in the work to learn this.” 

– Have your child practice gratitude. Remind them of all the things they are thankful for in their life, including their successes (big and small). 

– Seek out supportive people for your child to learn from. Find someone who believes in them and will encourage them on your journey toward growth. At Dropkick Math tutoring, we offer personalized learning, so each child is encouraged and guided in the help they need. 

Take The Time With Your Child

Mindest plays an important role in learning, so it’s worth taking the time to help your child cultivate a positive mindset. Doing so can help them overcome challenges, persist through setbacks, and reach their full potential as a learner.

Your beliefs about learning have a big impact on your child’s development. If you believe that learning is important, your child is more likely to develop the same belief. Similarly, if you believe that intelligence is fixed, your child is likely to internalize that belief as well. Therefore, it is important for parents to model healthy beliefs about learning. One way to do this is to emphasize the importance of effort and persistence. Help your child see that intelligence is not fixed but can be developed through hard work and practice. Encourage your child to view mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. You can help your child develop into a lifelong learner by modelling these healthy beliefs.

At Dropkick Math, our online math tutor services work with the parent and child to help build confidence and overcome any learning gaps in mathematics. Our program offers a unique take on math tutoring by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian. Visit our website today to learn more about how we help children grow and learn with a positive mindset!

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Algebraic Reasoning

Why Is Algebra So Scary?

Why Is Algebra So Scary

Algebra can be a scary subject for some students, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little help and encouragement from an algebra tutor, students can learn to love algebra and all of the opportunities it provides for problem-solving and critical thinking. In this post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why algebra is seen as being so difficult, and we’ll offer tips for making the learning process a little less daunting. So if your child is struggling with algebra, read on for some helpful guidance.

Math Anxiety

When we ask the question, “Why is algebra so scary?” the real question should be, “Why are so many people afraid of math?” Math anxiety is a very real phenomenon that can affect both young and old, making many feel nervous about trying to do math.  

But math anxiety is more than just a feeling of nervousness when facing problems. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as a racing heart or sweating. With such physical reactions, many people who have math anxiety tend to avoid situations in which they have to do math. Children with math anxiety will often have poor math skills because their first instinct is to avoid the problem. Adults with math anxiety are less likely to succeed in careers relating to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Until recently, educators thought that math anxiety first appeared when children learned complicated mathematics (such as algebra). So this would mean that young children who do not yet do complex math would not experience math anxiety. However, recent research shows that some children as young as six years old say that they feel anxious about math. Therefore, it is essential to address math anxiety when it is first noticed in a child. 

The Language Used To Express Ideas

It’s common for algebra to be seen as a subject that primarily involves memorizing formulas and number crunching. However, when we look closer, algebra is all about logical thinking and problem-solving. When we approach algebra problems, instead of simply plugging numbers into pre-existing formulas, we can think about what the unknown variable represents and how it relates to the other elements in the equation. 

Many students struggle with algebra, assuming it’s just a bunch of new and confusing information. However, algebra is actually the language we use to express ideas and relationships that we already know from real-life experience. Take the concept of “variable,” for example. Variables are just values or objects that can change – like a person’s height or the number of candy bars in a bag. 

We see variables everywhere in daily life, but algebra gives us a way to quantify and communicate those changes more precisely. So the next time your child feels overwhelmed by algebra equations, try to identify the underlying concept they already understand and apply it to solve the problem. Remember, algebra isn’t about learning something new – it’s about putting language into concepts we encounter daily.

This shift in perspective can help students learn to tackle algebra problems with greater creativity and confidence. It’s important to remember that algebra is not just about obtaining the right answer but also understanding its underlying concepts and reasoning. So next time your child is facing an algebra challenge, have them focus on the logic rather than just blindly plugging in numbers.

Why Is Algebra Important?​

Algebra is a crucial foundation for higher-level math and science courses. In algebra, students learn how to solve for variables in equations, representing real-world situations mathematically. This skill is used in all sciences, as well as in engineering and finance. 

Without a basic understanding of algebra, it would be virtually impossible to progress to more advanced math and science courses in college or in certain careers. Therefore, it is important to have a solid grasp of algebraic concepts and techniques. Additionally, learning algebra can help improve critical thinking skills and overall problem-solving abilities that are applicable in many aspects of life beyond academics. Ultimately, studying algebra helps lay the groundwork for future success in various fields.

Making Algebra Fun!​

Algebra can often be challenging for students, but at Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in making learning fun. Through game-based activities and interactive lessons, algebra becomes much more engaging. Students become engaged in problem-solving and critical thinking as they work their way through the game levels, quickly improving their algebra skills without even realizing it. Our approach helps to demystify algebra and make it a less intimidating subject for students. So if algebra has been a struggle for you or your child, come check out Dropkick Math Academy and see how we can make learning enjoyable.

We recently added three new programs to our class list centred around algebra. The Darkness of Algebra Trilogy offers three separate modules that will take children on an adventure as they navigate through the darkness of algebra with the help of Dropkick Lee.

The first in the series will have children battling through the underground world of darkness, where they will explore and review concepts connected to linear and nonlinear visual patterns. The follow-up to Vision Quest builds on the concepts developed in Part 1 by providing students with opportunities to explore and review concepts connected to linear and nonlinear situations and real-life contexts. For the third module, students will battle it out in the dark world and have opportunities to explore and review concepts connected to abstract representations and linear and nonlinear relationship models.

At Dropkick Math Academy, we understand that algebra can be a scary subject, but we take those thoughts and turn them upside down to make it fun! Our programs are taught by certified Ontario teachers who can spot any gaps in learning and get to the root of any misunderstandings.

If you have been searching for algebra tutoring online, look no further. Dropkick Math Academy offers programs that will make your child want to learn! We offer a different take from online math tutors and make learning algebra fun and interactive. 

Check out our programs, and register your child today!

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Math Programs

Why Game Based Learning?

Why Game Based Learning

If you’re a parent, you know that finding ways to keep your kids occupied and learning is a full-time job. There are so many options out there that it can be hard to know which is the right fit for your child. One option that has been gaining popularity in recent years is game-based learning. But what is it? And why should you consider it for your child? Keep reading to find out more!

What Is Game-Based Learning?

Game-based learning is a method of instruction that uses games and game-like activities to teach academic skills and knowledge. It can effectively engage students who may not be interested in traditional learning methods or who struggle with traditional instruction.

Game-based learning has been shown to improve student achievement, problem-solving skills, and teamwork skills. Many popular video games, such as Minecraft, are built around game-based learning principles. So next time your child begs you to buy them the latest gaming console, consider checking out some of the educational games available as well. You may be surprised at how much they learn!

Dropkick Math’s Games

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe that learning should be fun and engaging, which is why we incorporate game-based learning into our curriculum. With our programs, your child may find themselves battling the underworld against the gangs of Matica to help deepen their understanding of the connections between fractions, decimals and percents. 

Or, they may find themselves travelling to the city of Intermatica, where the queen of frustration, Francine, is making her last attempt to bring her brand of uncertainty and mathematical anxiety into their everyday math experience. Here, they will need to gain true confidence in math as the computer activates the defence shield that protects not only the great city of Intermathica, but also the future of you’re their learning in mathematics. Both parent and child will quickly notice how success is achieved by focusing on relationships and learning together!

That’s right! At Dropkick Math Academy, we want the parents to get involved with game-based learning! So, next time you log on for a lesson at Dropkick Math Academy, don’t be surprised if you find yourself playing a game with your child instead of completing traditional worksheets! We promise that you and your child will have a blast while enhancing both of your math skills.

How Does Game-Based Learning Work?

Games have been used as a learning tool throughout history. For example, chess was used to teach strategic thinking as far back as the Middle Ages. Although it has been found throughout history, the core concepts of game-based learning haven’t changed. Game-based learning is teaching through repetition, failure and the accomplishment of goals. 

The easiest way to think of this is by looking at video games. The player starts off slow and becomes more skilled over time, eventually building up to navigate the most difficult levels. Educational games that are planned and designed well will offer enough difficulty to challenge a child without being easy enough for the play to win constantly. 

Children should be able to actively learn and practice the right way to perform math equations. The result is active learning instead of passive learning. At Dropkick Math, we aim to show students that while math can be fun, they must work at it to enhance their skills. 

Game-Based or Textbook Learning?

Unfortunately, the educational system is slow to change. And although COVID helped speed up the virtual learning process, it is still lacking in ways to keep kids engaged. So, once schools opened back up and classes were once again in person,  a lot of the technology got left behind. 

But for students who don’t do well with learning from a textbook, it may greatly affect them. Many students need to be engaged and work with others to help them learn. While we don’t have anything against textbooks, it just isn’t how we do things around here. Dropkick Math exclusively uses game-based learning and virtual classes to keep children entertained and eager to learn more. 

Textbooks work for children, but even in those cases, they can become quickly outdated. When a textbook is released, it contains all of the current information, theories, and educational methods from when the book was printed. But since textbooks are meant to be used for many years, there is a substantial delay before the curriculum can be updated if needed. 

On the other hand, game-based learning is built to be adaptive from the beginning. Our games are tested and adjusted during production to ensure they are the most effective learning tools. As new information becomes available, or if the educational approaches need to be adjusted, our games can be easily changed to suit the needs of students. We even consistently ask for feedback from parents so that our games can be adjusted for future use. 

What Makes Dropkick Math Different?

While there are many math tutoring options available, Dropkick Math offers a different approach to learning. Our game-based learning creates a “math playground” where children can build their confidence and understanding of mathematics. We make learning math fun and our certified Ontario math teachers help children with the root of their misunderstandings. 

When students learn with our game-based education, they gain ownership of the material which can help to improve retention. Using different approaches and using goal-based learning can help to address all styles of learning at the same time. This means no matter what a student’s learning style is, a game can address them. 

Our game-based learning also provides a safe environment for failure. Many children will shy away from answering questions in a classroom setting because they do not have the confidence to make a mistake. However, our games give them a chance to try out new things, and if they fail in a game environment, they can simply try again and learn from their mistake. Our small class sizes also help children feel more comfortable. Regular education is based on memorization, whereas at Dropkick Math Academy, our math learning techniques allow children to learn through experimentation and trial and error. 

We are confident that your child will thrive with Dropkick Math Academy. We have helped hundreds of students close a gap in their learning while having fun. To learn more about our math programs that offer game-based learning, visit our website today! 

Categories
Math Tutoring

How To Encourage Your Child’s Thinking And Give Them Challenges

How To Encourage Your Child’s Thinking And Give Them Challenges

As parents, it’s important to encourage our child’s natural curiosity and critical thinking skills. One way to do this is by actively handing them challenges and allowing them to solve problems independently. This could be in the form of simple activities like puzzles or games, but it can also involve real-life tasks such as helping with grocery shopping or planning a family outing. 

It’s important for us to resist the urge to take over and solve their problems for them, giving them room to figure things out on their own and experience the rewards and challenges that come with it. In addition, fostering an open and curious mindset in our children can lead to increased confidence and creativity in their thought processes. So next time your child presents you with a math operation they can’t figure out, why not give them a chance to find the solution themselves? However, if they seem to struggle too much, investing in some math tutoring may be helpful. It will surely lead to valuable learning experiences for both of you.

Playing Math Games

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in game-based learning as a means to engage and motivate students. Research has shown that game-based learning can improve problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and memory retention. In addition, playing math games can also help build students’ confidence in their abilities and make them more excited about learning math. And best of all, game-based learning ensures that students have fun while also mastering essential mathematical concepts and skills. 

That’s why game-based learning is at the core of our curriculum at Dropkick Math Academy. We are committed to making math education engaging and enjoyable for all types of learners. With our games, students may find themselves embarking on an adventure in the Seas of Perseverance and taking on the dreaded Math Pirates. Or, they may be travelling to the year 2094 and preparing to take part in the yearly event called “The Great Race.” No matter their program, they will learn math through fun and engaging games. 

While we focus all of our learning on games at Dropkick Math, students can also play games at home to strengthen their math skills. Dominos, Uno Flip, Monopoly, and Money Bags are some of the best at home games that your child can play to make learning math more fun! Try turning off the tv in the evening and playing a game with your child. They will have fun and won’t even know it is helping them learn. 

Incorporating Math Into Everyday Life

Math may seem like an abstract concept to young children, but making real-life connections can help them understand its importance and usefulness. For example, grocery shopping provides a great opportunity to practice counting, estimating, and adding prices. Kids can also learn about subtraction by helping to divide a budget or splitting a bill at a restaurant. 

While playing outside, math skills can come into play when estimating the number of steps or measuring the height of a tree. Even simple daily tasks such as setting the table or folding laundry involve math concepts like sorting and arranging objects in equal groups. Showing children how math applies to their everyday lives can make it a more relevant and engaging subject for them.

Just don’t make it too easy for them. Children need to be able to make mistakes and learn from them to move forward. Mistakes can not only be learning opportunities, but as students consider their mistakes, it can also be a time when their brains grow. So, next time you find a situation where you can incorporate some math learning in real life, ask your child a question you know they may find challenging. Once they are able to work it out, their confidence will rise, along with their eagerness to learn more.

The Encouragement Your Child Needs

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe some of the best encouragement you can give your child is by learning alongside them. Our programs encourage parents/guardians to get involved and are tailored specifically for students and their guardians to work together on understanding the building blocks of mathematics. 

We understand that your child isn’t learning the same math you may have been taught. This is why our specialized programs create an environment where both parent and child can better understand the fundamentals, creating a fun and engaging learning environment. 

Over three decades of research have found that parent involvement positively impacts student success regardless of socioeconomic status, background, or parent’s level of education.  When you learn alongside your child, you are setting an example while strengthening your relationship. Your child will see your confidence building in mathematics, which will also help build them up. Your attitude about learning can directly influence your child’s educational success. 

Make It Challenging

As I mentioned earlier, while encouraging your child through games or everyday life, it is vital to also make it challenging. It may be tempting for parents to make math easy for children, but it’s important to remember that challenge is essential for learning. Just as a muscle grows stronger with resistance, our brains also need difficult tasks in order to strengthen and learn new skills. 

Giving children math problems that require critical thinking and problem-solving helps them develop their math abilities, rather than simply memorizing formulas or numbers. In addition, being challenged in math can help improve overall academic performance and increase self-confidence in the subject. So instead of offering kids what may seem like an easier learning experience, try pushing them to stretch their math abilities and solve challenging problems. It may be initially difficult, but they’ll thank you in the long run.

The Dropkick Math Way Of Learning

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in encouraging growth while challenging children. Our math help services offer a fun way for them to practice math operations and learn from their mistakes. 

We believe in not only the importance of education but also effort and self-motivation. That’s why we offer a rewards system for students who demonstrate a consistent and dedicated effort to learn. This could include participating in class discussions or taking on extra assignments. 

We want to emphasize that learning is not just about receiving good grades but about actively engaging with the material and investing in one’s own education. We hope this reward system will encourage students to embrace the learning process and strive for personal growth and improvement. Ultimately, we believe that the most important reward is the knowledge and skills they will gain throughout their time with us at Dropkick Math Academy. 

To learn more about our math tutoring programs, visit our website today!

Categories
Number Sense

How Learning Fractions Can Show A Strong Understanding Of Number Sense

How Learning Fractions Can Show A Strong Understanding Of Number Sense

We all know that fractions are a big part of mathematics, but how many of us really understand why? In this blog post, we’ll explore what fractions represent and how mastering them can show a strong understanding of number sense. We’ll also take a look at our programs for helping kids learn fractions in a way that makes sense to them. So read on if you are looking to help kids with their fraction skills or simply want to understand this important mathematics concept better!

Fractions Can Be Scary!

Fractions can often seem like a daunting concept, especially at a young age when fractions are first introduced. However, fractions are actually just a way to represent parts of a whole or ratio between two quantities. When broken down into smaller steps, fractions become much easier to work with and understand. 

First, it is important to have a solid understanding of basic arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. From there, fractions can be thought of as “special” divisions where the bottom number represents the total number of equal parts the whole has been divided into, and the top number represents how many of those parts we are dealing with. 

Understanding fractions is essential in further studying mathematics and real-world applications such as cooking measurements and financial budgets. Don’t let fractions deflate your child’s confidence – with some practice, they can become just another tool in their mathematical toolkit.

Math Builds Upon Itself

If your child seems to enjoy learning fractions and grasping the concepts, they will most likely have a strong understanding of number sense. However, if they are struggling to understand the concept of fractions, they may need to take a step back and revisit number sense. 

Many assume that math is a subject where individual concepts can be easily isolated and learned without prior knowledge. However, this assumption ignores the fact that much of math builds upon itself – number sense, for example, is crucial for understanding fractions. The intuitive understanding of numbers and their relationships lays the foundation for learning about fractions and how to manipulate them. Without this foundation, it can be difficult for a student to grasp the concept of a fraction and how it relates to whole numbers. 

It is important for educators not only to identify and address gaps in a student’s number sense understanding but also to consistently reinforce these basic skills throughout all levels of math education. A student may struggle with more advanced mathematical concepts without number sense as the foundational basis.

At Dropkick Math Academy, our programs are focused around the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning). This allows our teachers to ensure every child understands the root of all math operations.  

What Is Number Sense?

As we mentioned, if your child is struggling with fractions, they are most likely experiencing a gap in learning in number sense. But what exactly is number sense?

Number sense is understanding the quantity represented by a number. It is not the same as numeracy, which is the ability to do calculations. Number sense develops gradually. For example, a baby starts by recognizing that they see one person or two people. By the time they start school, they can count up to 20 or more. They learn what numbers mean in terms of amounts and quantities. This knowledge forms the foundation for learning more complex math concepts later on. 

Understanding Fractions

Research has shown that children build on their number sense by learning connections among whole numbers, percentages, decimals, and fractions. This can ultimately deepen their understanding of ratio and proportionality. 

An extensive study from The College Student Achievement Project found that understanding fractions is one of the most critical skills needed for college mathematics in both technology and business. However, it was noted that fractions are one of the main areas where students lacked the necessary understanding. This shows a significant gap in learning and missed opportunities for students in their math education. 

Dropkick Math Fraction Programs

Learning fractions and number sense go hand in hand, which is why we offer programs like Fractions & Knights of the Whole Table. This program centers around improving a child’s number sense and proportional reasoning skills with fractions.

We understand that fractions are one of the greatest barriers to math success and one of children’s leading causes of math anxiety. Our goal is to improve your child’s understanding, skills and confidence when using fractions. By giving them the confidence they need to battle the knights and sorcerers, they can overcome the stress of learning mathematics.

Once your child masters the basics of fractions, they can move on to the next program, Becoming A Fraction Hero with Operations. Here, they will work specifically with adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators. They will also work with multiplying and dividing fractions with whole numbers. 

With the help of heroes like Captain Struggle, your child will master the four pillars (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, proportional reasoning) using fractions all the way along. In this program, turning your child’s uncertainty into confidence will save the world and make homework struggles a thing of the past!

We Take Fractions Seriously!

As you can tell, we take learning fractions seriously! We want all children to succeed in mathematics and understand that the four pillars of math are at the root of understanding all math concepts. All of our programs address gaps in learning in these four pillars to ensure a child’s success as they learn future equations. 

One of the key ways to achieve success is to give your children a strong foundation in education. In our math help services, our certified Ontario teachers will work with your child to ensure they understand math concepts and don’t just memorize one way of accomplishing them. 

All of our programs are virtual, and we have new classes starting regularly. Learn more about our math tutoring services today by visiting our website. 

Categories
Learn Math

Why Do We Need Math?

Why Do We Need Math

Math. We all had to learn it at some point, but why do we need it? While it may seem like a difficult and pointless subject for many students, it is actually necessary for everyday life. Without math, a lot of things would be very confusing! So when your child asks why they need to learn math (which is inevitable), you will want to know how to explain to them why it is so important. In this blog post, we will discuss why we need math and how to explain to your child that it will help them out in the long run!

Is Math Misrepresented?

Many children don’t like math because of the way it is misrepresented in school. As a math teacher myself, I try to make my classes as fun and enjoyable as possible while showing children why they need math. However, everyone has a different way of teaching, and some children may do well in some teachers’ classes and not in others. How math is presented can either get children excited about learning or deter them from wanting to learn.  

A book called What is Mathematics, Really? By Mathematician Reuban Hersh explored how math is taught in school. It turns out that millions of students experience a depleted version of math which has little resemblance to the mathematics that is practiced in the real world. This may be why so many children believe math is just a subject they must suffer through in school and why they question why they even need to learn mathematics. In our math tutoring at Dropkick Math Academy, we ensure that students are focused on why they need math, making it easier for them to understand and more eager to learn. 

Why Math Is Important

If your child is struggling, suffering from low confidence in math or questioning why they need to learn math, it is vital to help them understand how important math is in the real world. The following are the top reasons why math is important, and everyone needs to learn math to be successful in everyday life.

  1. Math Helps Us Make Sense of the World Around Us

Math is often seen as a dry and abstract subject, but its applications are all around us. In fact, math is essential for understanding the world around us. To take just one example, consider the field of physics. Physics is the study of the physical world and relies heavily on math. The equations that physicists use to describe the behaviour of matter and energy are all based on math. Without math, physicists would be unable to make any sense of the physical world. This is just one example of how math helps us make sense of the world around us

Think about it—everything in the world can be broken down into numbers. From the amount of money in our bank accounts to the dimensions of the rooms in our homes, numbers are a part of everything we do. Math helps us make sense of those numbers and understand how they relate to the world around us. So next time your child is struggling with a math problem, help remind them that they are just trying to make sense of the world around them. 

  1. Math Helps Us Make Decisions

Math can seem a little less daunting if we apply it to real life. So, if children are taught that math is needed to help them make decisions as they go through life, they may think of problem-solving differently. 

To help your child understand, tell them to pretend they are going to get their first car. But first, they need to decide whether to buy it or lease it. They will need to consider the cost of the car, the interest rate on the loan, the length of the loan, their trade-in value, and the monthly budget. With a basic understanding of math, they can plug all of this information into an equation and calculate which option is best for them. Of course, math can also help them with more everyday decisions, whether they should buy the item on sale or wait until later. Or maybe they will need to decide how to divide up a bill between themselves and their friends. In both cases, math could help them make the best decision by giving them all the information they need to weigh their options.

  1. Math Teaches Us How to Think Logically

Many people believe that math is nothing more than a set of boring rules and equations. However, math is actually all about thinking logically. At its heart, math is all about logically solving problems. This process of thinking things through step-by-step can be applied to any number of scenarios outside of math class, from cooking dinner to fixing a broken appliance. Whenever we encounter a problem, we can use our math skills to think through it logically and find a solution.

To do this, we need to be able to identify patterns, make deductions, and spot potential errors. In other words, we need to think like detectives. This process of logical reasoning can be applied to any area of life, from everyday decision making to solving complex problems at work. When a child learns how to think logically, they can develop powerful problem-solving skills that will serve them well in all areas of their lives.

  1. Math Helps Us Develop Critical Thinking Skills

In addition to teaching us how to think logically, math also helps us develop our critical thinking skills. This is done in several ways. First, math provides a structured way of thinking about problems and solutions. By learning to break down problems into smaller steps, we can more effectively identify the key issues and brainstorm possible solutions. Additionally, math encourages us to think logically and systematically about problems. We learn to look for patterns and relationships and to use deductive reasoning to arrive at conclusions. These skills are essential not only in math class but in everyday life as well. Whenever we encounter a problem, whether it’s something as simple as deciding which route to take to work or something more complex, we use critical thinking skills. So next time your child is struggling with a math problem, don’t worry. Just remember that they are actually developing an important life skill and help them brainstorm possible solutions. 

An Important Part Of Everyday Life

Children may not realize it yet, but math is actually an essential part of our everyday lives. It helps us make sense of the world around us, make decisions, think logically, and develop critical thinking skills—skills that are valuable in all aspects of life. So next time your child struggles with a math problem, it could be a great time to point out why we need to learn math. Let’s face it, no one wants to learn something if they don’t know the point behind it!

At Dropkick Math Academy, we use every opportunity in our math tutoring to help children understand why mathematics is important to learn. By also focusing on the foundational concepts (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning), our engaging, innovative programs help students fully understand critical concepts that are the base fundamentals of mathematics. 

We also address deficiencies while correcting any underlying misconceptions about mathematics. All instructors are qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making them accessible for all learning needs.  

Learn more about our math help services by clicking here today!

Categories
Learn Math

The Parent’s Guide To Dropkick Math Academy

The Parent’s Guide To Dropkick Math Academy

Is your child tired of boring and repetitive math drills? Are you looking for a fresh and exciting way to improve their skills and make learning more fun? Look no further than Dropkick Math Academy! Our innovative platform offers a unique mix of gameplay elements and real-world problem-solving, making math fun and engaging for students in grades 4 – 9. 

With personalized lesson plans, in-depth progress tracking, and a vibrant online community, Dropkick Math Academy is the perfect tool to take your child’s math abilities to the next level. We are an alternative to other online math tutors as we focus on the fundamental misunderstandings your child may have in math and can provide them with the skills they need to keep advancing. We work with your child and yourself to understand the underlying problems rather than just focusing on helping them through the material they are learning at school.

Game-Based Learning

As mentioned, Dropkick Math offers a fun and engaging way of learning mathematics. Part of our educational experience includes game-based learning. This means that once your child begins our programs, you may hear them speak about their “battle pack,” or about “levelling up.” This is all part of our curriculum-aligned games that will help to boost your child’s confidence and improve their math skills. 

But Dropkick Math is so much more than just a game. We are the newest online math tutor available to help your child with any gaps they may have in their education. Owned and operated by certified Ontario teachers, we offer a learning platform that is dedicated to improving children’s achievements in math. With programs for children in grades 4 – 9, we focus on the four pillars of math to ensure every child learns the fundamentals of mathematics so they can be successful for years to come. 

How Does Dropkick Math Work?

The first step is to register your child with Dropkick Math. Upon registration, your child will need to take our early indicators assessment tool so we can determine which program will be best suited for their needs. They will then be placed in a class with no more than three other students. We keep our classes small so our teachers can spend more time with each student. 

Before your child’s class starts, they will receive their battle kit in the mail, which will help with their game-based learning at Dropkick Math. This battle kit will contain math manipulatives, a mini-whiteboard, and any other components needed for their particular program. 

You will receive an email from their teacher with all the necessary information, including the dates and times of all classes and the Google Meet link your child will need to attend their virtual class. Once they join their first class, they will be introduced to the math learning techniques that will help build their confidence and make learning math easier and more understandable. 

Each week, teachers will add to your child’s battle pack challenges to be completed for battle points. Once they meet again for their next class, they should be ready for more battle training and become a math dropkicker. Children are encouraged to review feedback from previous battles and fix any mistakes they made or even attempt more problems to earn battle points. Battle points add up to a reward at the end of the program, so students will most likely be eager to earn as many as possible. 

Parents will receive feedback after the 6th session. This feedback will include comments about any areas for improvement or boosts of confidence in math skills. 

Dropkick Math Programs

At Dropkick Math Academy, we offer various programs to fit every child’s needs. Each program is filled with different worlds for your child to explore. Each has its own characters and quests to accomplish. 

Younger children will start with our operations programs, where they will set sail and embark on an adventure in the Seas of Perseverance and take on the dreaded Math Pirates! Or, they may find themselves on the distant planet of Eldamore in a galaxy far far away. 

Children who may need some extra help with fractions will suit up as they battle against Knights and Sorcerers to bring mathematical order to King Array’s Whole Table. Or those who have a gap in learning algebra may find themselves on the algebra task force, battling it out in the dark world. 

Parent/Guardian Involvement

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to join the classes with their children as we believe that great success can be achieved by learning together! Active participation in a child’s education is crucial for their academic success and overall development. Education experts have found that parental involvement leads to higher grades, improved behaviour in school, and greater education aspirations for the child. Additionally, parents play a key role in instilling important values like hard work, determination, and self-discipline. 

Our tailored programs are specifically created for students and their parents/guardians to work together on understanding the building blocks of mathematics. After each class, parents are able to meet with their child’s teacher and get weekly feedback. 

If the parent or guardian is not able to attend each week, it’s important to remember that parental involvement can take many forms, but the end goal remains the same: giving children the tools they need to thrive in their education and beyond.

Building A Foundation of Knowledge

With Dropkick Math, students can eliminate homework struggles and build a foundation of knowledge and confidence in math that will last a lifetime. By focusing on the foundational concepts (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning), our engaging, innovative programs help students fully understand critical concepts that are the base fundamentals of mathematics. 

For parents who may be looking for math programs in Toronto, Dropkick Math Academy has classes taught by certified teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs. So, why not use Dropkick Math to make math fun for kids and to support their learning? Get started by learning more about our programs, and register your child today!

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