Ms Algebra's Tutoring

  Wednesday, January 17, 2024 by Darlene Anthony | Communication

ColdMageddon 24 

We made it through #ColdMageddon24!!! WooHoo! Were you able to stay in during the Arctic Blast? I hope each of you were able to weather the storm the last 4 days. It's been bitterly cold here in the DFW and surrounding areas. What's fascinating is the difference a day makes. This first picture was taken Monday Morning.  As I prepared for bed Sunday night, there were a few flurries and a small accumulation. Yet, when I checked the camera footage from my Vivint App while snuggled in my warm bed, I was shocked at the amount of accumulation that we had. 

Picture 1: Monday Morning

Tuesday morning, from the same location as before, I took a peek outside (via my Vivint App ☺). The scenery was completely different. What once appeared to be cold, gloomy, and scary, now appeared warm (though really cold), inviting and safe. The sun was shining bright, blue skies, with no snow accumulation to be found anywhere. 

Picture 2: Tuesday Morning

At times, math can easily be seen like the first picture. Over the years, you may have shut down, been sad, or even apprehensive about math...your body can actually have a physically response from an emotional reaction. However, like the 2nd picture, the sunshine comes along, Ms. Algebra, to help chase the scary math feeling away to bring happiness, excitement and the freedom to do math knowing and understanding errors are ok. Ms. Algebra firmly believes that it is okay to Be Right, it's okay to Be Wrong, but strive to never Be Nothing. 

5 Benefits of Writing in Math

Writing in math is one way to help move you from Picture 1, cold, gloomy and scary to Picture 2, shining bright, happy, and ready to excel. Here, you will find 5 benefits you may receive when you take the time to move from computing math in your mind to taking the time to write it down.

Memory Enhancement: Writing things down in math will allow you to organize your thoughts to help clarify your understanding. It also helps to engage multiple senses and reinforces memory. We must engage every part of us to connect, especially writing. The benefits of writing things down helps to move the new material from short-term memory to long-term memory.

Communication: When you are writing things down in math, you are sending information to your teacher and others. It allows you to share your thought process of your solutions, especially your teacher.  

Problem Solving Strategy:  If you have not noticed mathematics is comprised of patterns. Once you are able to recognize the pattern your understanding will increase. To take that understanding to the next level, create a problem solving strategy that will help you break down the more convoluted problems in a more systematic way. 

Visualization: Though I am not a very artistic person, I am a huge advocate of drawing pictures, graphs, some sort of visual aid that will help you see the problem in a more concrete way. Math can seem so abstract and difficult to grasp. However, visualization provides a way to make it more comprehensible. 

Feedback and Review: Everyday in Algebra I find myself referring back to material we covered 2-3 months prior. Former skills and concepts always have a way of coming back up when learning new material. Written work, such as notes or self-assessments, provides a record for you to track your progress.   

Essentially, writing things down in math transcends documentation; it serves as a catalyst for learning, problem-solving, and communication. This journey enhances understanding that empowers learners to build mathfidence (Math confidence) one written solution at a time. 

Until next time, Be Right, Be Wrong, Don't Be Nothing!!

~Ms. Algebra

  Wednesday, January 3, 2024 by Darlene Anthony | Welcome

Happy New Year everyone!!! Can you believe we are in year 2024? This school year is definitely on the move. My 2nd semester begins Monday, January 8. Before we know it, testing season will be among us. However, with Ms. Algebra in your tool belt, you  are ahead of the pack. This winter break has definitely provided me with the rest and reset I needed to continue to serve you and my students. 

Are you the parent of a high schooler?  I have 3 myself, twin 9th graders and an 11th grader. For those of you that are, this just may be the event for you. Your high school student will have an opportunity to learn more about college and entrepreneurship. Plus, you have an opportunity to win prizes and scholarships. Use the QR Code to register. 

Students, as you get ready to go back into your math classroom, I want to give you 5 things to consider: 

1. Embrace a positive mindset: Believe in your ability to succeed in math and approach this semester with a can-do attitude. Remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth and improvement.
2. Set clear goals: Define what you want to achieve in the second semester and break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. By setting specific targets, you can stay focused and motivated throughout the semester.
3. Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance when you encounter difficulties. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. I am always here to help.
4. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to mastering math concepts. Set aside dedicated time each day to review and practice the topics covered in class. Regular practice will not only reinforce your understanding but also build your confidence.
5. Celebrate small victories: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a step closer to success. Reward yourself for completing assignments, understanding a challenging concept, or achieving a higher grade. Celebrating your achievements will keep you motivated and excited about your math journey. 

As always, Be Right, Be Wrong, Don’t Be Nothing!!! Ms. Algebra is building confidence one solution at a time!!!