Dear parents/guardians,

     This year in third grade we will be reviewing addition and subtraction facts.  For success in math it is necessary to master memorizing the math facts.  That is easier said then done.  Not all children learn at the same rate, just like all children do not walk at the same time.  It does take practice, practice, and more practice for some children.  Here are some suggestions to make the process easier.

• Only practice for 10 minutes at a time, but you may practice a few times daily.
• Start with concrete items—have M & M’s. Skittles, popsicle sticks, buttons, or counters.  (Counters are available at Bradburn’s Teacher Store for around $3.00).  Note:  counters are a choking hazard so keep them in a special bag/box to use at given times.  That makes them more special.  Have your child model the fact.  A set of 5 and a set of 8 make 13.  Have your child model, write, and say the fact.  This all helps the child remember using the tactile, visual, verbal, and auditory senses.
• Go more abstract.  Use dots to make arrays.  Then your child should write and say the math fact.
• Now use only numerals.  Your child should print the fact.  Use a chalkboard, dry erase board, or crayons to make it more fun.
• Your child should print facts that are challenging five or ten times while saying them aloud.
• Use flashcards daily.
• Auditory learners will benefit from math facts tape/CD.
• Play games to encourage mastery of the facts.  We will learn the card game “Flash”, played like “War”.  Also, we will play the Tic, Tac, Toe game and Fly Swatter Math in class.  Ask your child to play these games with you.  Try to make math fun.
• Use the computer to reinforce mastery of math facts.