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November 2006
Math Matters For Your Child - More Than
Ever
How many times do we adults say to one another,
"I'm just not good at math!"?
That may be true for some of us. But it won't be a good
enough answer for our children. In fact, you may be shocked
at the central role of math in the new generation of jobs.
Consider: :
- In 62 percent of American jobs over the next 10 years,
entry-level workers will need to be proficient in algebra,
geometry, data interpretation, probability, and statistics,
according to a study by the American Diploma Project.
- All high school students need similar levels of math
knowledge whether they are headed for college or going
directly into the workforce, according to the same study.
- Math is the key skill for designing and running Internet
search engines, Wall Street investment systems, analysis
of target audiences for advertising, and countless other
services we take for granted.
- Today’s biggest rising stars in industry are
mathematicians. Top mathematicians commonly start with
six-figure salaries. And graduates who are well-trained
in higher mathematics are in great demand generally.
What it all means is that your
child needs math. Now.
As a parent, here is what you can do.
What Parents Can Do:
If you are the parent of a high school student:
- Make sure your child takes and passes
Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II.
- Even if your child fulfills the
math requirements by junior year, insist that he or she
take a math class, such as calculus, senior year.
- Stay on top of your child’s
homework. Make sure he or she keeps up with assignments.
If you are the parent of a middle
school student:
- Be sure your child takes Algebra
I in middle school if possible. This will enable him or
her to go farther with higher-level math in high school.
- Meet often with your child’s
teacher, and be sure to discuss how your child is doing
in math.
If you are the parent of an elementary
school student:
- Make math fun. Do puzzles, measure
things, count money, and create everyday problems to solve.
- Consider music lessons, which help
mathematical thinking.
- Try not to impart any fear of math
to your child.
- Meet regularly with your child’s
teacher, and talk about your child’s progress in
math and how you can help
Most importantly for all students,
if your child is struggling with math, get help early.
Talk to the teacher, guidance counselor or principal. You
might find an older student, or a college student, or even
a professional tutor to work with your child. Don't feel bad
if you can't help your child with math. What matters is that,
one way or another, your child gets whatever help he or she
needs.
For more helpful information for families on school topics,
visit MBRT's Parents Count home
page or call 410/727-0448.
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