Multiplication facts "headache"

One of my least favorite parts of teaching upper grades are multiplication tables.  SO much of what I teach in math is dependent upon the fact that my students are fluent in multiplication.  If, for example, they don't know what 3 times 4 is, it is really hard to ask them to find Least Common Multiples or Greatest Common Factors.  Finding the percent of a fraction, division in general are all really, really hard if you are struggling with your multiplication facts.

So what to do?  
Since time is something we're lacking in class, I've included some fun ways the kids can practice their facts at home:


1.  Use the traditional flash cards to play a game of Sparkle, multiplication style.
2.  Students roll two dice, then multiply the 2 numbers they rolled together.
3.  Create a memory game–one card contains the factors, the other contains the product.
4.  Dominoes-students draw a domino that is face down.  They multiply the dots on either side of the domino together.
5.  Number Draw-no materials needed except your fingers!  P
6.  Play Ask-n-Switch which is a whole class game using flash cards.
7.  Multiplication War with a deck of cards.  Students each draw two cards, then multiply them together.  The student with the largest product wins the round.  (this was part of our Math Centers).
8.  Multiples pyramid-students practice writing the first 12 multiples (or amount of your choice) for a given number.

multiples pyramid

Have fun practicing your facts!

Miss Lopez

What's "bug"ging us?

Hello everyone,

The new school year is starting with a bang!  We have had quite a few cases of lice at PDC this week.  Due to the amount of cases we can only conclude that the nasty little critters have been multiplying at a somewhat accelerated rate.  The heat wave has not helped matters either;(

To avoid any more cases I would like to ask all parents to please check your children’s scalp for nits and lice every night.  If you happen to find any lice or nits do not freak out!  You can simply go to a pharmacy closest to you and pick up a head lice treatment.  Don't forget to also advice the school's secretary.

If your munchkin’s scalp is clear, and you’ve done the happy dance, get yourself a bottle of tea tree oil and apply it behind your child’s ears and neck every morning to prevent an invasion;) The nasty little monsters hate the smell of tea tree oil.  I will also advice the girls to tie their hair before they come to school.

Have a good night,

Miss Lopez

About head lice

Place value video with some groove!

Hi everyone,
We have been reviewing Place value, digits and numbers in class.  Our munchkins were very excited to start using their ISN and began taking notes like pros;)
I found these two videos that I want to share with you:
Forgive me, but I am sure the tune All about Place Value will remain with you for a while:)

Place Value with Mr. C

All about place value

Have a great evening;)
Miss Lopez

Class Dojo

Dear Families,

This year I will be using a web-based program called Class Dojo to help track students’ behavior.   It is an excellent communication tool to help keep parents updated about their child’s behavior.

In Class Dojo, students can earn points for positive behaviors such as being on task, following directions, helping others, etc.  Students can also lose points for negative behaviors such as being off task, not following directions, etc. Students love being able to track their points.

Once you have joined our class you will be able to check your child’s progress anytime.  You will also be emailed a report every Friday.  Students can create their own account so they can check on their own progress and manage their avatars. (There’s even an app!)  Parents love having instant access to how their child is doing. Another great feature of Class Dojo is the ability for me to send messages to parents. 

Students and parents from previous classes have loved it and I hope you will find it helpful too!

I’ve giving your invitation letter with directions about how to join to your munchkin.  Please return the bottom portion of that letter so I know that you have signed up. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Miss Lopez