My child is struggling. What can he/she do to be more successful in this course?

• Your child should complete an honest Self-Evaluation of his/her learning habits. This can be used to identify specific areas in which your child could make significant improvements. I also recommend that your child meet with me before school to discuss his/her concerns, and to come up with a plan of action.  Student can also read this article, filled with plenty of hints, tips, and strategies to be more successful in his/her math class.  Of course, reading it is just the start, implementing the listed strategies is the next step.
   

What can I do at home to help my child be more successful in this course?

• Check your child's grade report online frequently, and discuss the grade report with your child. Ask to see all quizzes and tests, and check to make sure your child has corrected any errors (even if your child received a good grade!). Quiz your child on any flash cards he/she has made.  Ask your child to explain what he/she is learning on a weekly basis, even if you don't understand it. This helps students to either confirm that they understand the material or identify questions they still have. Encourage your child to ask questions in class and to seek help before school in tutorials when needed.
   

How can I check my child's grade online?

• Follow the link to the Check Your Child's Grade page. There you need to set up an account and a 6 digit password.  You will need your home address and phone number, your child's student ID number, your child's birthday, and your e-mail address.
   

What's the best way to prepare for the midterm/final exam?

• Start early! Don't try to review too much in too short a time period. Use your quizzes and tests as study guides. Rework the problems on your tests first.  If you get stuck, reread your notes pertaining to that topic, and rework the problems on the quiz corresponding to that topic.  Use flash cards to memorize formulas and unit circle values.  Do not rely solely on in-class reviews. Although in-class reviews are intended to help prepare for the exam, they will be brief and cannot focus on individual needs.
   

Which mathematics course should my child take next year?

• Your child has several options for a mathematics course next year.  If your child is prepared for the rigor of an Advanced Placement (AP) course, he/she should take AP Calculus AB or BC and/or AP Statistics.  These courses may both be taken during the same year.  If your child does not wish to take an AP-level mathematics course, he/she should take Algebra III.