You’re the Decision Maker
If you were asked, “What will you teach this morning,” you might answer something like, “Math, spelling, vocabulary, penmanship, and reading. That answer is a start, but math, spelling, vocabulary, penmanship are simply content areas. What specifically are you going to teach this morning? In other words, what part of the above content are you going to teach?
Most parents and classroom teachers are counting on the textbooks they are using to help them with this decision. At the beginning of the school year, most textbooks are reviewing last year’s concepts. Once the review is complete, new content will be introduced, incrementally.
But, one thing is missing. The publisher doesn’t know your child!
The publisher doesn’t know how much instruction, practice, and review your child needs. But you do. To simply go lockstep through the books you’re using is an almost sure path that will lead to frustration.
To avoid frustration and increase the likelihood that learning will take place, you should continuously ask two questions: “What does my child know,” and “Is he ready to move on?” Be prepared to deviate from the curriculum. If your child is struggling and needs more review, allow more time, and utilize other resources. If he has a good handle on the concepts being presented, eliminate redundancy and move forward.
Remember, you’re the decision maker.
That’s the tip of the week!
Curt Bumcrot, MRE
Is your student struggling with comprehending a subject or staying on schedule? Basic Skills offers flexible tutoring for students with and without special needs. Regardless of your student’s academic situation, Basic Skills can help them to make progress. Click here to request information.
