Fit4Algebra: When Does Learning Algebra Begin?





Fit4Algebra. Is your child ready?



There are many prerequisites to algebra and benchmarks to help you know if your child is measuring up. The National Mathematics Advisory Panel offers helpful benchmarks for the foundations of algebra by outlining the topics students need to have mastered at each grade level to be on the path to algebra in grade 8. However, these topics alone are not sufficient. Future success in algebra requires building conceptual understanding, computational fluency and problem solving skills.
As children enter school and begin to learn addition and subtraction facts, it is not enough for them to memorize those facts. They need to develop a firm understanding of numbers and how to combine and separate them to form new numbers. They need to build fact families and understand that there is a variety of ways to express these relationships.
Equality is another important algebraic concept that should receive attention beginning in pre-k. Sharing is an important skill for students to learn at this age. They can learn to share equal quantities by counting and placing items into two or more equal groups.
Remember, science has debunked the myth of a math gene. ALL students can learn math! But why is it that some students are better at math than others? It is most likely their experience or attitude toward math. Studies have shown that effort does matter!
A strong grounding in high school math through Algebra II or higher correlates powerfully with access to college, graduation from college and higher earning upon college graduation. Start preparing now, no matter how young your child is, for lifelong success in math.

Parent/Teacher Conferences: Be Prepared!

 

Getting Ready:

• Ask your child if there are topics he or she would like discussed with the teacher.
• Write notes to yourself about your child's personality, learning difficulties and study habits -- aspects that you feel the teacher should know. Take these notes with you to the meeting.

Helpful Questions to Ask at the Meeting:

• What is your classroom homework policy?
• What are the skills that you expect my child to master this year?
• Is my child working up to his or her ability?
• How can I stay involved in my child's learning

During the Conference:

• Be respectful of the teacher's time and arrive promptly.
• Begin the conversation on a positive note.
• Discuss your notes concerning your child's learning habits.
• Ask your most important questions first -- in case time runs out.
• Listen to the teacher's comments and be open to feedback and suggestions.
• Ask the teacher for specific suggestions on ways to help your child reach his or her full potential. This is the most important part of the meeting.
• If the teacher says something that you don't understand, ask for clarification. Don't be shy.
• Take notes so you can discuss the meeting with your child.
• End the meeting by reiterating the actions that will be taken by the teacher or you.

 

After the Conference:

• Develop an action plan, then work with your child to implement it. Be sure to make learning fun.
• Stay in contact with the teacher and continue to discuss your child's progress.

Does Your Child Need Academic Help?

It's the beginning of a new school year and that means changes and new challenges. But how can you tell if those challenges are a result of the changes, or if there is something more involved?
The notion of supplemental education, whether it's to catch up, keep up, or get ahead has been around for a very long time. Socrates, for instance, tutored Plato, and Plato tutored Aristotle. These were all bright philosophers and scholars who learned from someone who knew more. So, how can parents know when a personal instructor is right for their child --before the first report card is received?
Ask yourself these questions:
Is your child . . .

• In need of assistance to reach his or her full potential?


• Developing low self-esteem?Losing interest in learning?


• In need of support on daily homework assignments?


• Struggling to focus on task (e.g. - spending more time daydreaming than on reading or homework.)


• Receiving test scores that do not reflect daily performance?

If you answered yes to any of these questions -- your child will benefit from personalized instruction. A good personal instructor will inspire and help students - at all levels of academic accomplishment, develop study habits and organizational skills that will result in significantly improved schoolwork and test scores.

Taking the time to consider whether to hire supplemental assistance means parents are giving their children an opportunity to excel in the classroom- from the very first day of school. When children are successful in school, they build confidence that translates into all areas of life, helping them build a strong foundation for a successful future.

The purpose of tutoring is to teach children efficient learning skills and techniques to use in the classroom and, ultimately, in the workforce as adults. It is important that parents take action early and seek a reputable supplemental education service that creates individual learning plans and develops the skills needed to achieve success.

If you notice that your child is struggling with homework at the beginning of the school year, the first step is talking with your child and determining the underlying cause. Once you know the potential source of difficulty, it will be easier to develop a strategy for changing the struggle into success.

Even a child who is doing well int he classroom can benefit from outside help to sharpen study and test taking skills. A supplemental education provider can help your child prepare for a test or obtain academic enrichment in a particular subject.

What Should Parents Look For When Selecting a Tutor?

• Get recommendations from family, friends, and teachers.


• Ask prospective instructors for references from previous employers and students, or hire a respected supplemental education company, such as Sylvan, with a proven record of unlocking a child's potential to achieve academic success.


• Make sure the instructor is licensed and certified.Ask personal instructors how they will help your child master a specific skill.Request an assessment to gauge your child's current level.


• A good teacher will require that a child learn a specific skill before advancing to the next academic level, and by utilizing the results of an assessment, you can benchmark your child's progress.


• Most importantly, ensure the instructor will work with you and your child's classroom teachers to create a personal learning program based on your child's current needs and skill gaps.

Although parents may not have the necessary skills to teach their child mastery learning techniques, they can take the right step by obtaining the proper academic help.

Tip #1. What's the Difference?

Have you always wondered what the differences are between the ACT and SAT? Knowing which test is right for you can make all the difference. Outlined below are a few of the difference between the two tests:

Why it's important: While the college admission and testing process can sometimes feel stressful and complicated, it's essential to understand that the more a student understands about the process, the better the student's score. While the decision between taking the SAT oer the ACT may feel puzzling, a few key differentiations likely will help guide a decision that will yield the best results for each individual student. Whether a student likes to work in short sections like the SAT, or feels more comfortable answering every question without the threat of a penalty like the ACT, confidence raises scores. . .and scores help students get accepted!

Tip #2. MATH!

ACT Mathematics

The ACT Mathematics section consists of 60 multiple choice questions.

Pre-Algebra and Elementary Algebra: This sub score consists of 24 questions involving topics such as fractions, decimals, ratio, percent, absolute value, variable to express relationships, polynomials and square roots. These skills most studetns have upon entering high school.

Intermediate Algebra/Coordinate Geometry: This sub score consists of 18 questions involving topic such as quadratic formula, inequalities, roots of poly nomials, real number line, line graphs, point, line and slope. These skills mosts students have upon completion of Algebra 1.

Plane Geometry/Trigononometry: this sub score consists of 18 questions involving topics such as properties and relationships of plane figures, parallel lines, proof techniques, perimeter, area, volume, graph of trigonometric functions, and trigonometric equations. These skills most students have upon completion of geometry.

SAT Mathematics

SAT Mathematics section is comprised of 44 multiple choice questions and 10 grid-in answers.

Number and Operations: This section consists of questions involving topics such as arithmetic word problems, number lines, ratio, proportion, percent, and logical reasoning. These skills most students have learned throughout their high school math career.

Algebra and Functions: this section consists of questions involving topics such as factoring, exponents, absolute value, inequalities, direct and inverse variations, linear functions, and quadratic functions. It does not include any trigonometry, complex numbers or logarithms.

Geometry and Measurements: This section consists of questions involving topics such as points, line, quadrilaterals, area, perimeters, circles, coordinate geometry, and transformations. It does not include any formal geometric proofs or radian measure.

Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability: This section consists of questions involving topics such as data interpretation, statistics, elementary probability, and geometric probability. It does not include any computation of standard deviation.

Knowing what is coming is helpful for prep! Make sure you are familiar with all the math that will be tested. Start studying early, be prepared!

Tip #3. Make a Plan!

Planning is crucial in making the college testing experience as comfortable as possible. Creating a clear schedule for when you are prepping, when you are testing, and when you are applying, will make you more effective and make every one's lives easier.

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Freshman

1. Begin thinking about a college prep plan

Sophomore

1. PSAT


2. SAT Subject tests (if taking applicable honors/AP courses.)

Junior

1. PSAT in October (if it has not been taken.)


2. Speak with college counselor and attend College Nights


3. SAT/ACT should be taken in the fall, and again in the spring.


4. Begin exploring colleges that are of interest, and scheduling college visits in the spring.

Senior

1. Create a master calendar of all college application and financial aid deadlines and due dates.


2. Collect letters of recommendation and high school transcripts.


3. If necessary, take SAT/SAT/SAT Subject tests in the fall.


4. Determine whether you are applying for Early Admission, if not your college choice must be decided and financial aid package accepted by May 1.

Remember, things will come up along the way that may force you to alter your schedule slightly, but once you have a clear road map worked out a small detour won't break yours stride towards college admission.

Tip #4. SAT or ACT? or BOTH?

Making the choice between taking the SAT and the ACT might leave your head spinning, but not to worry! I've outlined some things to think about, particularly about considering BOTH!

Understanding the Tests:

• The ACT and the SAT showcase different skills and slightly different academic curriculum. Many students possess strengths that favor elements of each test respectively, but by taking both tests, students can provide a more complete picture of their knowledge and talent.


• Some students will be inclined towards one test or the other, but it's impossible to be certain which test students will perform best on without actually having explored both tests.

What do Schools Look At?

• Most colleges accept both the SAT and ACT and they understand that the two tests have differences, but do not view either as "harder" or "easier." Having both allows college admissions departments to consider both scores in determining admission and scholarship eligibility.


• Some schools, however, only accept one, or might accept both but express a strong preference for one. They should make these requirements clear in their admissions/application information.

Bottom Line: It is always best to collect as much information about potential schools you're interested in so you can make decisions based on knowledge rather than guesses. But, since many similarities exist between the two tests, think about preparing for both. It will only strengthen students' abilities come test day, and can provide future college choice flexibility, with no risk of being forced to eliminate schools unnecessarily.

Do your homework. Know what schools you want to consider and know what they require.

Tip #5. Mastering the Sections

Some things in life never change. However, it turns out the SAT is not one of those things! in 2005, the SAT made significant changes by adding a "Writing" section and revising the existing "Math" and "Critical Reading" sections.
What this means for you:

• The addition of a writing section means students' writing ability is now being evaluated by admissions departments in two ways, the SAT and their admissions essay. Translation: Writing is more important than ever for admissions.


• The Critical Reading section was revised weighting comprehension heavier than vocabulary. Translation: Colleges are more interested in students that can comprehend and analyze what they read. The days of being able to memorize "frequently tested word" lists as a means of compensating for poor comprehension skills are over.


• The Math section now includes additional concepts and content typically seen in college bound student's third year of high school math. Translation: These changes may affect your testing timeline. Most students will be through all of the revised junior year content by the time they are taking the SAT, but if not, be prepared to take extra test prep time and be sure all math concepts have been covered.

Understanding the test is as important as understanding the content of the test. Every point counts!

Tip #6. Subject Tests

SAT Subject Tests may not receive all the hype that SAT and ACT tests receive, but all college-bound high school students need to be very aware the SAT Subject Test may very well be the deciding factor in determining their admission.

Top 5 Benefits of Taking SAT Subject Tests

1. While Subject Tests are not required for admission everywhere, they are "highly encouraged" at many colleges and virtually ALL highly competitive schools.


2. Subject Tests provide a great opportunity to demonstrate an individual's specific strengths and aptitudes. SAT Subject Tests provide applicants with the opportunity to differentiate their application from everybody else's.


3. The SAT and the ACT provide colleges with a broad sense of academic capabilities, but the Subject Tests provide dept and detail to the application.


4. For many colleges, Subject Tests may be necessary in order to be accepted into the desired major or program upon admission as a freshman.


5. SAT Subject Tests are content-based and scores generally directly reflect knowledge of the content (more so than test-taking skill.) Taking Subject Tests in the content you feel most confident can be a great opportunity to boost your application with the high test score.

Remember, while you may not know all the colleges you will be applying to yet, be prepared for admission by signing up for your targeted subject tests immediately following the completion of the AP/Honors classes.

Tip #7. Meet With The Counselor

Whether you're just beginning the college admissions process or far along and just fine-tuning your college application list, scheduling time to speak with your school's college counselor is invaluable! Your counselor has information about admission tests, college preparation, and upcoming college information events, which will all be of great benefit.
We've outlined 20 questions you should be ready to ask your Guidance Counselor:

1. What courses do I need to take to be ready for college?


2. How should I plan my schedule so I'll complete them?


3. Which elective courses do you recommend?


4. Which AP courses should I consider taking?


5. When is the PSAT/NMSQT going to be given?


6. How should I study for the SAT, and and is it given at this high school or do I need to go somewhere nearby?


7. Do you have any college planning sessions scheduled?


8. Do you have college handbooks or other guides that I can browse or borrow?


9. What activities can I do at home and over the summer to get ready for college?


10. What kinds of grades do different colleges require?


11. Are there any college fairs at this school, or nearby?


12. What colleges do other kids from our school go to?


13. What are the requirements or standards for the honor society?


14. Can you put me in touch with recent grads who are going to the colleges on my wish list?


15. Do you have any information to help me start exploring careers?


16. If my colleges need a recommendation from you, how can I help you know me better so it can be more personal?


17. Are there any special scholarships or awards that I should know about now, so I can work toward them?


18. Is my transcript as complete as I think it should be?


19. What forms do I use to apply for financial aid and where can I find them online?


20. How does our school's test scores and reputation compare to others?

The college admissions process can feel overwhelming, but remember to reach out the the support systems around you to take advantage of their experience with the process as well as their numerous resources.

Tip #8. Score Choice

SAT Score Choice is a new option offered by the SAT allowing student the option to choose which scores to send to colleges, after seeing the scores themselves first. If students decided NOT to use Score Choice, all scores are sent to the colleges selected at registration immediately.

What does this mean?

Does Score Choice affect how many scores I send or receive?

Any or all of your scores can be sent to a college on a single report. It does not cost more to send multiple test scores, or all of them. If you choose not to use Score Choice, all of your scores will be sent automatically in each score report

Should Score Choice influence how many times I take the SAT?

No. While you may see a small score increase if you take the test a second time, there is no evidence to suggest that taking the SAT more than twice is beneficial to your score. Remember: Score Choice allows you to choose your scores only by test date, not by test section.

Why should I use my registration score reports if I can't see my scores?

Using the registration score reports ensures that the test scores are sent to colleges at the earliest possible moment. Colleges use standardized test scores for admissions as well as scholarship awards, course placement, or selection to a specific program or major.

Bottom Line: Score Choice is a significant change in score reporting for the SAT because it means students generally have greater control of who sees their scores. It does not however, change the need to maximize each test date as a scoring opportunity.

Make every test take be a test worthy of submitting to schools!

Tip #9. Tackling Anxiety

The college admissions process can really be a time of anxiousness--the high stakes of college entrance exams a major contributor! Here are some test tips that are certain to help ease nerves, raise those SAT and ACT scores, and set your student up to succeed!

• Start Studying early: Help your child set up a study schedule months in advance to allow leisurely preparation and eliminate the need for cramming.



• Encourage effort: College entrance exams will have a big influence on a student's college admissions. Be honest with your student that it is an important test and that they need to take it seriously, try their best, relax and remain calm.



• Take practice tests: Taking multiple practice tests will make students feel more comfortable with the testing experience and remove much of the mystery involved with college entrance exams.



• Get a good night's sleep: Studies have found that stress is elevated by fatigue. Be sure that your student has plenty of uninterrupted sleep a few days prior to the test day.



• Eat a healthy breakfast: The SAT and ACT are generally offered in the morning, so having a good, healthy breakfast will keep them energized for a long day, and allow them to stay focused and alert.



• Come early and prepared: Make sure your child is at the test site early and has all of the appropriate testing supplies. Being late or missing materials will cause stress they do NOT need.



• Stay calm: This can be a very nerve-racking time for students. Remind them that testing is only one piece of the admissions puzzle and reassure them of your confidence and pride in all they have accomplished!

The SAT is Coming. Top 10 Tips

We have started a "Count Down of Top 10 Test Prep Tips" as an e mail series to our families. I thought it would be nice to post them here as well! My next 10 posts will be counting down those tips over the next several weeks. Remember, the SAT is a bit early this year (October 1), so prep classes need to start sooner than in years past.

There's been much debate regarding the validity of SAT and ACT scores as "fair" or "accurate" predictors of future college success. However, no debate exists regarding their impact on a student's ability to be accepted to the college of their choice.

Pretend you are a college admissions specialist. You've not met the student, all you have is the below information. Which student would you accept?

As you can see, it can become very subjective comparing students in most areas of their application, but the test scores speak loudly, clearly, and require no clarification or explanation.

Test scores are important...very important. Many factors such as GPA, admissions essay, extracurricular activities, etc) will be considered by college admission departments, but SAT and ACT scores factor in largely in part because they are objective and serve as an easy point of comparison for colleges viewing many applications.

Students should use the SAT and ACT tests as an opportunity to set themselves apart from other students. It's an opportunity! Take it!

Is Your Child Learning this Summer?

As an educator, I'm completely baffled by the fact that we allow (and encourage!) our students in the United States to take two to three months off of learning over the summer. First (and probably most importantly) is the amount of learning loss that occurs when students do not actively engage in learning activities.

On average, students lose approximately 2.6 months of grade-level equivalency over the summer.* When you consider that students are only in school for 9 months, that's almost one-third of that learning time! So when students go back to school in the fall, the start of the school year is spent on review. How much time of that 9 months is used to recover the average 2.6 months of learning loss?

The second thing I wonder about is what expectation we are setting for life. How many jobs are there that take the summer off? If we consider that school is a child's job, then shouldn't we be setting the expectation that your job is year round? Parents should start early instilling a realistic work ethic in kids. Not that I believe there should be no break from work, by all means, we all need time for recreation! But entertainment and recreation should not take the place of learning for kids. We all need balance!

There are ways to have fun while you learn--learning SHOULD be fun! Summer is a great time to learn those math facts. Make a game out it by using playing cards and seeing who can add up two cards the fastest.

Start a neighborhood book club and read a book with a movie tie in. When everyone has finished the book, have a movie day as a reward and watch the movie version of the book. Have a discussion group about the similarities and differences between the movie and the book.

Keep a summer journal ('cause you know there will be a back-to-school writing assignment on "What I did this Summer"!) of activities that you do. Bottom line is, SUMMER BREAK SHOULD NOT BE A BREAK FROM LEARNING!

*Cooper, 1996

Are You Reading this Summer?

Did you know that Tuesday, June 23 is National Summer Learning Day? At Sylvan, this is pretty exciting! Since we work year round, we know the importance of making sure students' brains stay active during the summer months. Ten to twelve weeks is a LONG time off for most people. I know when I take a week long vacation, it takes me a few days to get back in the swing of things when I get back to work...imagine what it's like for students after a summer long break!

With that in mind, I'm encouraged by the fact that Sylvan has partnered with the National Summer Learning Association to celebrate Summer Learning Day! Summer is such a fantastic time to enrich a child's skills, my favorite skill to encourage is READING! For a child to discover the enjoyment of being swept away by a good book is one of my greatest hopes! Part of making that happen is practice and making sure a child becomes proficient at reading. No one likes to do something they are not good at! I know I don't!

You can make a game out of improving those reading skills and make it fun. Mail time can be fun...take that junk mail that seems to fill the box and have your young child circle various words. Pick a word you know will occur a lot (like "the" or "of") and have the child seek and find.

To get your child practicing oral reading, have your child read any and everything out loud: street signs, store names, restaurant menus, etc. For an extra special treat, make a book on tape play it back or send it to a loved one who lives far away. I'm sure you have someone who would love to have that in their mailbox!

For older students, one of my favorite things Sylvan offers is the Advanced Reading Skills class. Students really get a kick out of how much they can improve their reading skills (speed and comprehension) in just the first class. It's especially good for those kids who are competitive...even with themselves! There is a class starting next week, so jump on that bandwagon and sign up! Your student will LOVE it!

Most of all, make sure that you have lots of books on hand. Sylvan has a great resource for families called BookAdventure. It's a free reading incentive website designed to help students become more motivated about reading.

Any of us would be happy to talk to you more about how to help your student become a more engaged reader and perhaps avoid that "Brain Drain" this summer!

866-949-4776

Need Help in Fractions? Most do!

Over the past 16 years, I've worked with a lot of students who have a variety of ages and skill levels. Many who come in for math help have struggled for years and finally hit a wall during their high school years. By the time they come in to see me, we are dealing with a student who not only hates math, but is beginning to hate school as well...we have a lot to overcome by this time!
Of course, the first thing that we do is take a look at where the root of the problem is--then figure out how we can fix it. Most of the time we can, and we are hopeful that the student is willing to believe that we can and be patient with the process. We evaluate the students' skills, looking at everything that the student should know by this point in their school career.
You know what I find most often? That the student does not have a clue what to do with a fraction! A FRACTION! These fraction skills are taught in the 5th grade--then often not taught again, except as they apply to higher math. And as each math class piles on more and more difficult fraction skills, the student gets more and more discouraged.
The up side is, by high school, most kid-brains are able to figure them out! They just need to be given simple, step-by-step directions. I love it when we show a student how easy fractions are when you break them down. I love seeing the student slowly (but surely) not hate math anymore. I love it that math is no longer big and scary!
Next week is a fun week at Sylvan. We are teaching a class JUST ON FRACTIONS! So we will have a group of kiddos who no longer fear the big bad fraction!
Do you have a student in this boat? If you are reading this you probably do. Don't wait another year and hope it gets better. It won't. Give us a call and we'll make it better--for everyone!
1-866-949-4776

Word Analysis Camp

Phonics Fun!
This camp is perfect for those students who want an extra boost of phonics and fluency!
In this month long camp, students will:

• Learn and review phonics skills



• Practice spelling strategies



• Develop fluency



• Have fun!

Classes are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from and are offered during June and July.

Call for specific dates and center times.

1-866-949-4776

This camp is perfect for students in kindergarten through 3rd grade who want to improve their decoding skills and learn to read more fluently.
Students will:

Learn and review phonics skills

Practice spelling strategies

Apply decoding strategies to fluency

Have fun while learning!

Class will be held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Two different dates available:

June 3 - June 29 OR July 1 - July 29

2011 Summer Seminar Series Grades 7-12

Study Skills: Advanced Reading Skills: June 20 – June 29 OR July 18 – July 27
Students learn how to improve their reading speed and comprehension, preparing them for the increased workload in high school and college.
(Class is M, T, and W)

Study Skills: Organization and Time Management: August 15 – September Start the year off right! Let us help you get your classes organized so you can have a great start to the new school year.
(Class is M/W)

College Prep Writing: June 6 –June 24 OR July 11 – July 29

The Writing Skills you need for College
(Class is M, T, W, TH and F)
· Research papers − Develop research and organization skills.
· College Entrance Essays
· How to avoid the pitfalls of plagiarism.
· How to write an analysis essay.

Pre Algebra Camp: June 1 – June 30 OR July 5 – July 28

Great for students going into 7th, 8th and 9th grade.
(Class is T, W, TH)
· Numeration Skills
· Fractions and Decimals
· Integers and Algebraic Reasoning

Geometry Camp: June 6 – July 1 OR July 5 – July 28

Get ready for High School Geometry
(Class is M, T and W)
· Foundations and Reasoning
· Properties of Triangles and Circles
· Similar Triangles and Transformation

SAT Vocabulary Building: June 13 – June 24

Great for students who want an edge on the SAT
(Class is M-F from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
· Learn tips and strategies for test day
· Learn the meanings and usages for the most common SAT vocabulary
· Strengthen vocabulary for high school and college

SAT Prep for October Test: July 23 – September 24
Get ready for the big test.
(Class is Saturdays 9:30 – 1:30)
· Refresh math and verbal skills tested on the SAT College Entrance Exam
· Take three practice tests during the course
· Learn tips and strategies for test day
· Get access to SylvanMathPrep.com for SAT math

Sylvan Test Prep for SAT/ACT/PSAT and PLAN

Great for busy students who need a flexible schedule and skill enrichment
(Class is online, at home, anytime!)
· Four practice tests
· Analysis of missed skills and enrichment of those skills
· Video lessons to strengthen math and vocabulary skills
· Personalized vocabulary word bank and practice

2011 K-6 Summer Seminars

Word Analysis (K-3rd)
Word Analysis Skills
• Learn and review phonics and spelling skills
• This class is Monday, Wednesday and Friday (closed on the 4th of July)
June 3 – June 29
OR
July 1 – July 29

Sum Fun
Addition and Subtraction Math Fun
A fun approach for your child to improve understanding of basic addition and subtraction skills, while increasing speed and accuracy
• Learn strategies to help with addition and subtraction
• Understand the concept that addition and subtraction are related
• Increase speed and accuracy of basic addition and subtraction facts
• Solve simple addition and subtraction word problems
June 13 – June 17
OR
July 11 – July 15

Divide and Conquer
Math Facts
A fun approach for children to improve understanding, speed and accuracy of basic multiplication and division facts
• Understand the concept of multiplication as repeated addition
• Identify division facts as they are related to multiplication facts
• Learn strategies to help learn multiplication facts
• Increase speed and accuracy of basic multiplication and division facts
June 27 – July 1
OR
July 25 – July 29

Solve This!
Problem Solving Skills
• Students will become confidant, analytical thinkers and problem solvers
• Students will explore many options to solve problems and discuss their tactics with the group
July 11 -15 (3rd – 5th grade)

Write On!
Writing Styles Camp
Your child will have fun engaging in different roles as authors, while practicing and improving writing skills
• Discover your literary voice
• Write descriptive, informative and persuasive pieces
• Write as a newspaper reporter, an advertiser, a movie critic, and more
• Create and illustrate stories
• Practice different approaches to prewriting
• Create a unique piece of work that reflects your style
June 6 – June 10 and July 18 – July 22 (3rd -5th)
OR
June 13 – June 17 and July 11 – July 15 (6th – 8th)

Read Ahead: Early Reading Fun (Pre K and K)
Beginning Reading Camp
A fun approach to building early reading skills and kindergarten readiness
• Recognize and write capital and lowercase letters
• Build listening comprehension strategies
• Improved phonemic awareness
June 13 – June 24
OR
July 11 – July 22

Happy Birthday, Dr.Seuss!

Thank you Black Mountain Science Academy for the lovely birthday party today for Dr. Seuss! Our Cat in the Hat very much enjoyed the cake and reading time.

We love getting the chance to get out in the schools and share the love of reading. And what better day than Read Across America Day to do that?

Thank you, again, for the lovely time! We met a bunch of Successful Readers this morning and wish you all many more years of fun reading ahead!

Reading and Study Strategies Starting Soon

Reading and Study Strategies course starting February 21!

Students learn how to effectively use notes as part of the study process, utilize text books, learn research skills and specific techniques for studying.

The Sylvan Reading & Study Strategies program includes:

• Reading efficiently
• Using textbooks
• Survey & research methods
• Report writing
  

Call now! 1-866-949-4776

Space is limited. Help your child finish the school year strong!

Free SAT Diag Day February 21

Free SAT Practice Test Offered at
Sylvan Learning
February 21, 2011


If you would like to know how your child is likely to do on the SAT, plan on attending the free Diagnostic Day at Sylvan Learning Center.
Following the test, parents and students are invited to attend one of two score review seminars that will explain how to read your child's scores, as well as tips and strategies for test day.
If your child has already taken the SAT, attending the Sylvan Diag Day will help you to identify your child's strengths and weaknesses and get an in-depth look at what improvements can be made to reach your desired score.

• Three out of four Sylvan Prep students raise their SAT* scores by 160 points or more!
• Small group settings for individual attention
• The most instructional hours of any leading test prep service
• State-of-the art course materials and practice tests
• Targeted approach focusing on the exact skills needed to successfully answer test questions

February Special

Testing and Enrollment Fee $95
Schedule an assessment for your child on a Monday or Tuesday in February and pay only $95 for your testing AND registration fee. That's a savings of $195! Spaces are limited, so call now to reserve your spot. Upon request, we will review your child's test scores on the same day and let you know how we can help your child become a confident and successful student!
The Sylvan Learning Guarantee
Your child's math or reading skills will improve by one full grade level equivalent in only 36 hours of instruction, or we'll give you an additional 12 hours of instruction free.

Sylvan Math Prep
With your enrollment in any math program, you will also receive a free subscription to SylvanMathPrep.com for the remainder of the school year. With video lessons directly correlated to your child's text book, you can take the stress out of math work at home.





A list of frequently asked questions about Sylvan can be found by clicking here. Sylvan is here to help. Get started by calling today to take advantage of our February special.

Paradise Valley Parent Teacher Conferences This Week

All this week, parents in the Paradise Valley school district will be meeting with their child's teachers to review what is happening in the classroom.

Parent/teacher conferences are an excellent opportunity to gauge your child’s academic progress and create an ongoing dialogue with your child’s teacher.

In preparation for the meeting, ask your child if there are topics he/she would like discussed with his/her teacher. Jot down some notes to yourself regarding anything you would like to know about your child's performance in class, and what you should expect for the rest of the school year.

Some helpful questions to ask include:
-- Is all of my child's homework turned in?
-- What is the quality of the work?
-- Has my child mastered the skills you would expect by this time in the school year?
-- Is my child working up to his/her ability?
-- What can I do at home to improve my child's learning in the classroom?

During the conference, it is important to be respectful of the teacher’s time and arrive promptly. Conferences are always more productive if the conversation remains positive. Listen to the teacher's comments and be open to feedback and suggestions for your child. Be sure that you ask your most important questions first so you are sure to have your answers in case time runs short.

Don't forget to ask the teacher for specific suggestions on ways to help your child reach his/her potential. This is the most important part of the meeting. Don't be shy! if the teacher says something that you don't understand, ask for clarification. This is your child and your time, you don't want to miss anything.

End the meeting by reiterating the actions that will be taken by the teacher or you; then create an action plan and work with your child to implement it. Set goals and make it fun!

Communication is key for success in the classroom. If you have questions for your teacher, contact the teacher immediately, don't wait until it's too late to help your child meet success. Find out if your child needs a tutor and act on it, don't think the problem will magically correct itself. The curriculum moves forward with or without your child. Don't let the gap get too big!

GREAT MLK Day!

Thanks to all our students who came in on their day off school! We enjoyed working with you! We are still taking enrollments for our Note Taking Seminar and the SAT class preparing for the test in March.
What a great start to the week!

Notetaking Class Starting Soon!

Does your child struggle to get down the best information from text books and lecture for studying for that big test? When it comes to filtering through information, most students are at a loss as to what is important and what is not; and how to best record that information for future use.

Prepping for tests is not just about studying the week or day before a test, prepping is about having the right information. Many students spend hours "studying" for a test, only to be disappointed when the grade they receive is not the grade they thought they would. This can happen when students are not preparing appropriately.

It's not about studying harder, it's about studying smarter. Sylvan's Note Taking class will help students prepare for their classes by helping each student understand his or her learning style and how to work within that learning style when it comes to taking notes.

We will also help students find the best way for them to record the information. Not all students learn in the same way, likewise, not all students will take notes in the same way. And that's OK! What is important is that the information recorded is the right information. Sylvan will help students learn to listen, read textbooks and prepare along the way...smarter, not harder.

If you are interested in attending the 14 hour Note Taking class at either the Glendale (starts February 3) or Phoenix (starts January 26) locations, please call 1-866-949-4776 for more details.

MLK Testing Special

It's not too late to book your spot for 1/2 price testing on January 17. The kids are out of school so make the most of the day off to start enriching your child's education! Call today, 1-866-949-4776. We still have a few spots left at both the Glendale and Phoenix locations.

It's Time for SAT Prep

The pressure is on. To compete in today’s global economy, which includes international students attending North American colleges in record numbers, U.S. teenagers must obtain collegiate degrees now more than ever. According to the latest research of the U.S. Department of Education, college enrollment grew 16 percent between 1985 and 1995. Between 1995 and 2005, enrollment increased at a faster rate (23 percent), from 14.3 million to 17.5 million. The number of graduating high school seniors is expected to peak in 2011, with 67% trying to gain admission to an institution of higher learning.

What does this mean for students with college aspirations? Acing the college entrance exam is critical. Most students applying to competitive colleges now take the SAT*/ACT® more than once, and as early as sophomore year.

Our growing global economy has made it necessary for more students to attend college in order to obtain good paying jobs. Tools, such as the common application, encourage students to apply to more schools - which increases the competition. Thus, making it more difficult for students to gain acceptance into the top institutions and colleges that were once seen as “safeties.”

More students and parents today are learning the secret that top colleges have known for years - systematically preparing for the SAT/ACT gives students more confidence and more confidence can lead to higher SAT/ACT scores.

New college admissions rules now allow students to score their best by taking the SAT/ACT as many times as they like, but educators suggest taking the tests no more than two or three times. Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of tutoring to all ages, grades and skill levels, offers the following advice to ensure students properly prepare for their college entrance exams – Sylvan’s 10 STRESSFREE Steps to Reduce the Stress and Ace the Test!

- Studying for the SAT*/ACT® takes weeks, even months, of review. Don’t try to cram overnight.
- Trust yourself. Rely on your instincts. Never leave an easy question blank.
- Read the questions and answers critically.
- Easy questions have easy answers.
- Stop and check. Every few questions, ensure the question number on the answer sheet corresponds with the booklet.
- Save time. Make sure you have enough time to answer as many questions as possible, in order to rack up as many points as possible.
- Focus on what the question is really asking. If you don’t fully understand the question, finding the correct answer is going to be tough.
- Rushing only hurts you. Keep track of the time remaining for each section.
- Eliminate answers. If you can eliminate at least two incorrect answers, make an educated guess.
- End each section by reviewing. If time permits, revisit the questions you didn’t answer.

It’s never too early – or too late – to begin preparing for college and lifelong economic success.

Students who are interested in a test prep course should visit the “College Prep” area at www.SylvanLearning.com or call 1-866-949-4776 to learn more about Sylvan SAT Prep and Sylvan ACT Prep. These courses are offered exclusively through Sylvan Learning and provide proven test-taking strategies, state-of-the-art course materials and content review in small team environments that give students the confidence and personalized attention that help raise test scores.

Preparation for the March 12 SAT test will begin January 24 in Glendale, with classes running on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and in Phoenix on Saturday, January 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Instruction includes 30 hours of test prep and three full length practice tests. Juniors and seniors are encouraged to sign up early as space is limited.