How to Improve Your Child’s Algebra Skills Quickly
A list of some helpful strategies for strengthening your child’s algebra skills in a short period of time
It is no secret that everyone has certain math areas in which they struggle with. Whether it be calculation, geometry, word problems, and so forth, it is easy to become frustrated while spending night after night trying to complete a homework assignment but to no avail. One math topic in particular that can be tough to master for students is algebra. With so many different topics and problem solving steps to memorize, it can be extremely confusing and hard to keep track of every piece of information. However, there are many avenues that students can take to overcome these challenges with algebra. In this article, we will cover five different ways of how children can improve algebra skills and continue on their journey to becoming a mathematical expert!
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Take Detailed Notes
In regards to algebra, a lot of the time students’ grades will be reflected by how much effort they put into the class. That being said, good note taking habits are key for scoring high when test day comes around.
Not only should students write down as much helpful information as they can into their notebooks during class. Reviewing those notes while completing the homework assignment later in the day is also important. For the vast majority of the homework problems, the answer for how to solve them can be found in your notes.
If possible, try to write down sample problems that relate to the day’s main topics in your notes as well. If your teacher does not provide sample problems while lecturing. Ask them to start including them because they are incredibly useful!
Familiarize Yourself With the Formulas
When it comes to algebra, formulas are your best friend! There are countless different occasions in which a problem appears complicated but can be solved by plugging in a simple formula.
For example, in regards to intermediate level algebra, logarithms on the surface look extremely difficult. However, if students can memorize the process in which to tackle them. Numbers can then be easily entered into a scientific calculator and the question can be solved within a couple minutes.
Practice Makes Perfect
Remember, algebra is extremely tedious and takes both time and patience to master. With that being said, consistent practice is the most efficient way to slowly become more comfortable with the subject.
Homework questions are the easiest place to start. Although it may feel like a drag, completing the daily homework assignment is crucial for grasping each lesson and not falling behind. In addition, if there is a homework question that you are unable to solve. Make sure to put a checkmark next to it and ask your teacher about it during class the next day.
Join a Math/Algebra Skills Study Group With Other Classmates
It is always more fun and productive to learn in a group rather than alone! Integrating into math study groups can help you digest math material easier. With multiple members in a group, students learn from each other and are introduced to math techniques that they did not already know beforehand.
Furthermore, it is likely that your group members also struggle with certain algebra topics of their own. They will be able to both give you advice and provide reassurance. Experiencing adversity while studying math is perfectly normal! Remember, algebra is arguably one of the toughest math subjects for a lot of students in both middle school and high school. The best method to overcome it is through teamwork.
Register for a Supplemental Math Class Focused on Improving Algebra Skills
Supplemental math classes are especially helpful for improving children’s algebra abilities. Instead of having your child spend hours trying to solve a complex problem. Which will eventually lead to frustration and a decline in motivation. Math classes are able to guide students through the problem solving process step by step and provide them with tools on how to efficiently get through questions.
In addition, tutors who teach supplemental math classes are well versed on the subject of algebra. Not only do they have years of experience teaching students the keys to success. A lot of them have also taken part in math competitions which emphasize on having strong algebra skills.
About Think Academy
Think Academy provides online teaching services and classes for math students across grades K-Middle School. We also provide tons of free academic resources such as worksheets, webinars, and more! For those who are interested, you can join our WhatsApp group to receive free weekly math resources!
In addition, if you would like to receive free math resources via email instead. You can sign up to join our newsletter here!
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Think Academy’s Classes
We offer numerous different math courses for children in grades K-8. We have short-term math classes that can help improve your child’s fundamental math skills. These courses last only about a couple weeks.
In addition, we also have K-8 long-term classes to ensure that students master the math material in their respective grades. These semester-long courses are available in three different levels (Advancement, Mastery, ACE) to account for all learning speeds!
As for students who want to take their math skills to the next level. Think Academy provides math competition prep classes for events such as the AMC 8 and Math Kangaroo!
Check out one of our teachers in action!
You can register for any of our classes by clicking the link to our courses page here.
1-on-1 Evaluation
Lastly, before you register for our long-term courses. Make sure to schedule a free 1-on-1 evaluation if you have not already! Think Academy’s 1-on-1 evaluation contains an overview of our mission and academic structure, a 15-question evaluation exam, a one hour in-depth analysis, and a 15-minute teacher-to-parent discussion. After the evaluation, a customized study plan will be provided so that all of your child’s learning needs are met!