Students at Varnett East are learning to use mental math skills to solve problems. They are being rewarded for their participation. Forty families participate during after-school hours to show their support and are greeted with snacks and a warm reception. In addition, the campus plays motivational workout music as a warm-up activity.
The campus is divided into stations. At each classroom, a teacher welcomes students and explains the rules of each game. Games -- such as “Scavenger Hunt Math” and putting numbers in sequential order by using cups -- create a physical and mental challenge for students. They keep their attention.
Students work alongside peers and gain needed feedback and confidence. Likewise, both parents and staff have an enjoyable time using a different approach to help students master the content.
"Like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
Our large population of English language learners retain information best by being actively involved in some sort of critical thinking project that is tangible. It helps them to recall the experience, and therefore makes learning concrete.
According to math scholars, games provide opportunity for meaningful practice. They contend that drilled techniques and timed tests do not have the power that mathematical games and other experiences have.
East Campus hopes to include a math rock wall next year and a hydroponic garden to further promote interest in science and mathematics to help students reach new academic heights.
For a list of math games used at Parent Night, click here.
Mr. Rhone is the math and science instructional coach at East Campus