Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I support my child in mathematics at home?
- How much should I help my child with their homework?
- How can I support my child with learning Math Facts at home?.
- What type of questions are on the elementary grades math MCAS?
- How many questions are on the math MCAS and how long should the test take?
How can I support my child in mathematics at home?
Math is everywhere in our environment! We are using math each time we shop,
wall paper a room, set an alarm clock, wrap a present, or mix a baby's
formula. Our day to day responsibilities prompt us to ask mathematical
questions such as, "How many hours until my appointment?" or "How many plates
do I need to set for dinner?"
Supporting your child in mathematics at home is more straightforward than
one might think. You can support your child and foster a positive attitude
in mathematics by involving your child in these experiences and taking the
opportunity to discuss the importance of math in their daily lives. Model
reasoning and problem solving skills to solve everyday problems. Use your
child's day to day interactions to build their mathematical understanding
using authentic everyday experiences.
The link below provides meaningful and authentic math activities for grades
K-5, which support mathematical thinking at home.
http://www.ed.gov/pubs/parents/Math/
How much should I help my child with their homework?
The Homework Policy within the School Handbook states the following
recommendations:
"Parents should provide an environment conducive to studying and working
independently. They may help students organize time, space and materials so
children can complete their homework effectively. Parents are encouraged to
help clarify directions and ask questions that may help students to organize
their thinking and recall information from class lessons. Because teachers
carefully select assignments, parents should encourage their children to work
independently. A handbook for parents with tips on how to help students
complete homework is available upon request from the office."
How can I support my child with learning Math Facts at home?.
If your child is participating in the Fastt Math program regularly, parents
are encouraged to request a copy of their child's current Fact Grid. This
report will show a student's current fluency status with all facts in their
current operation. This information is helpful because parents can determine
which facts their child is fluent with and which facts they need more
practice with. Click on the Math Websites' tab (located at the top left of
this page)to see specific websites that support and reinforce fact learning.
What type of questions are on the elementary grades math MCAS?
Each test session has a combination of multiple choice, short answer and open
response items. The following link defines each type of test question and
provides a sample question for each type of test item from previous tests.
http://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/about1.html?faq=2
How many questions are on the math MCAS and how long should the test take?
The test is administered in two sessions. Each test session has
approximately 16-19 questions with a total of about 40 test items. Each test
session takes about 45 minutes. All students will be granted additional time
to complete the test if needed.
