Liza Rivas

I have taught and tutored children of all ages for Mathematics and I have learned that not many really understand how to study for Math.

I have had students that simply review the process of a topic or just read the practice problems.  There is only one way to really study for Math and that is to actually do the Math. 

These are my suggestions:

First, make sure the child is following through and has really understood all the topics that they have covered.  Remember, Math is continuous, most times you need to understand one part to be able to really understand the other.

Second, you should help them write a study guide of at least five problems per topic. 

Third, complete the problems.

Fourth, have the child correct the review with the answers.

Fifth, then have the child identify the problems he or she had incorrect and finally find the mistakes. 

If more than three out of the five problems per topic are incorrect; then the child should review that part until they can complete several different problems and get a final correct answer.

If the child is having great difficulty in Math, maybe it would be wise to have him/her review the basics concepts; that would be revising first to fifth grade curriculums.  Summer time is a great time to review those Math concepts.

If you are helping a child to review for Math, always try to simplify the problems and relate the process to real life circumstances; that way it is easier for the child to visualize and integrate the concepts.

Math can be great fun, especially if the child feels he or she is really comprehending!