For many people, learning a second or even third language is very challenging. I know it is important for the students to strive to achieve their own personal best. For the most part, this is done through determination and hard work. However, there are many ways you can help your child at home. Here is a list of things you can do to help:
Language Arts
1. Encourage them to read, and to read often. Ask them relevant questions about the books they are reading like, "what problem is the main character facing?", or "what do you predict the antagonist will do next?". You may even want to grab a copy of the same book and read along with them. Showing them you're interested in their learning goes a long way.
2. Have them keep a journal or write a blog at home where they can express their thoughts. The more a student writes the better they will become. In their writing, you will see patterns or areas where a child can improve. For example, if the post is a simple summary of the day in its entirety, after reading it, suggest them to focus on one event from the day that was most memorable and to include lots of little details. Good writers include lots of small details and zoom in on important events.
3. Use the net. If there are specific areas of concern that your child is struggling with, look online for ways to improve upon them. No need to re-invent the wheel. There are thousands of tips and tricks out there. Do a little research and find one that fits you and your child best.
Math
1. Encourage neat work. Too many times a student will get a problem wrong because they did not line up a problem correctly.
2. If the work is challenging for your child, and for you, just ask for help! We have online forums and I am always available to answer something. Most of the time its something little forgotten in the process.
3. Try different ways to explain it to them. Not every child thinks the same way, and there is more than one way to answer the same question. Even if your child thinks of doing something differently than the way you were taught, its ok. As long as the end result is the same. Use manipulatives, move around, use food, be creative!
Everything Else!
1. Use the net, use the forums, we are a learning community, someone has your answer. I'm always available at [email protected]
Websites that can help!
1. Raz-Kids http://www.raz-kids.com/main/Login "awheat" for the login
2. Brain Pop http://www.brainpop.com/ Covers every subject in a fun way
3. ESL http://www.everythingesl.net/inservices/elementary_sites_ells_71638.php A site that has links to many different learning websites. Explore them and see if you like any of them.
4. Khan Academy: A website that teaches literally everything for free! Highly recommended. khanacademy.com
Language Arts
1. Encourage them to read, and to read often. Ask them relevant questions about the books they are reading like, "what problem is the main character facing?", or "what do you predict the antagonist will do next?". You may even want to grab a copy of the same book and read along with them. Showing them you're interested in their learning goes a long way.
2. Have them keep a journal or write a blog at home where they can express their thoughts. The more a student writes the better they will become. In their writing, you will see patterns or areas where a child can improve. For example, if the post is a simple summary of the day in its entirety, after reading it, suggest them to focus on one event from the day that was most memorable and to include lots of little details. Good writers include lots of small details and zoom in on important events.
3. Use the net. If there are specific areas of concern that your child is struggling with, look online for ways to improve upon them. No need to re-invent the wheel. There are thousands of tips and tricks out there. Do a little research and find one that fits you and your child best.
Math
1. Encourage neat work. Too many times a student will get a problem wrong because they did not line up a problem correctly.
2. If the work is challenging for your child, and for you, just ask for help! We have online forums and I am always available to answer something. Most of the time its something little forgotten in the process.
3. Try different ways to explain it to them. Not every child thinks the same way, and there is more than one way to answer the same question. Even if your child thinks of doing something differently than the way you were taught, its ok. As long as the end result is the same. Use manipulatives, move around, use food, be creative!
Everything Else!
1. Use the net, use the forums, we are a learning community, someone has your answer. I'm always available at [email protected]
Websites that can help!
1. Raz-Kids http://www.raz-kids.com/main/Login "awheat" for the login
2. Brain Pop http://www.brainpop.com/ Covers every subject in a fun way
3. ESL http://www.everythingesl.net/inservices/elementary_sites_ells_71638.php A site that has links to many different learning websites. Explore them and see if you like any of them.
4. Khan Academy: A website that teaches literally everything for free! Highly recommended. khanacademy.com