Jun 26, 2010

The Cure for the Math Curse Workshops

The Cure for the Math Curse

Math, the subject most of us freak out about the fastest. How can we ensure our children LOVE math and are good at it when we don't like it ourselves? Learn how to break the mold of math anxiety by breaking the bad teaching habits that create it, and learn new ways of approaching math to replace the old fear-inducing habits.
(Note: Because of it's length, the workshop packet for this is distributed as a .pdf file unless requested otherwise.)

Math Classes!

The Cure for the Math Curse: Intro to Algebra


(for grades 4 and up)

This series of classes will introduce a fun way (using LEGOs and dice) to learn beginning algebraic concepts from 2x = 8 and ending with -4(5 - x) = 3x - 12. Students need a foundation in both multiplication and division, but do not need to have memorized all their math facts.

There are two additional levels: "Polynomials" and "Factors and More". These three levels combined comprise the majority of Algebra 1.



The Cure for the Math Curse: Math Club

These are sets of four - 90 minute classes on a specific topic. Each class begins with quality math literature and a wide variety of games that all reinforce the topic. Each class is designed to help your student enjoy math, gain a stronger conceptual understanding of the topic, as well as introduce memorization skills. Club topics to choose from are:

Charts and Graphs

Addition and Subtraction

Logic and Strategy

Geometry

Multiplication

Division's Many Faces

Consumer Math

Mathematical Mystery Tour

**Arithmetic Review (8 classes that include a bit of all of the above))

Jun 9, 2010

Wednesday classes

I will once again be teaching for BAHE on Wednesdays in Cary! I will be teaching Algebra 1(beginning with linear algebra), High School Chemistry using Apologia's "Exploring Creation with Chemistry", and a Junior High general science class with a proposed spine of Beginnings Publishing's, "Rainbow".

For specific details please contact Lori Anne at and get on the mailing list!

Jun 1, 2010

GIFT Registration for 2010-2011 has begun

GIFT registration is now open!

I will be teaching the following classes:

Math & Science Club (for ages 6-11):

Each week we will explore a math or science topic with a hands-on game or activity deigned to help students explore a wide variety of topics in a fun way while improving vocabulary and memorization skills. Math topics will include addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, percents, charts and graphs, and geometry. Science topics will include a wide variety of physical science topics including the properties of matter, Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, the physics of fluids and air, the periodic table, chromatography, and more. There will be weekly hand outs offering suggestions of activities, books to read, documentaries to watch, or games to play at home provided.

The Cure for the Math Curse: Intro to Algebra (for ages 11 and up):

This series of classes introduces a visual and hands-on system for learning beginning algebraic concepts using building blocks and dice and follows these concepts through Algebra I concepts. We will cover pre-algebra, linear equations including both positive and negative integers and variables, continue on through graphing linear equations, graphing parabolas and multiplying polynomials. Homework is both assigned and is required and should be expected to take 15 minutes a day.

Prerequisite: Students need to be comfortable with both multiplication and division, but do not need to have memorized all their math facts. If they are not comfortable with both multiplication and division a calculator will be required.

Biology (for ages 12 and up):

We will explore the beauty and complexities of life through a variety of laboratory and hands-on activities as well as related discussions stressing vocabulary and comprehension of higher concepts. Four units will be covered: microscopic life, genetics, organ systems, and the diversity of life. Students who have access to a microscope with at least 100X are encouraged to bring their microscopes in throughout the fall months. Homework (in the form of vocabulary words and questions to research and discuss) will be assigned.

Please Note: Dissections will be included only if all the students agree that they want to do them. If dissections are to be included there will be an additional supplies fee.

Physical Sciences (for ages 12 and up):

Physics and Chemistry are the foundation of all other sciences and are vital to understanding all others. This course consists of introductory lab work that will include lessons in metric measurements, properties of matter, density, Newtonian motion, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, periodic table, elements and compounds, acids and bases, precipitates, chromatography, balancing equations and more. Many labs during the fall and spring will be done outside so topics will vary somewhat depending on the weather. Homework (in the form of vocabulary words and questions to research and discuss) will be assigned.

Please visit www.gifthomeschool.org and download both registration and enrollment forms.