Mathletics

Dear Parents,

I would like to welcome you and your child to an exciting year of Mathletics! What is Mathletics, you say? Mathletics is West School’s math enrichment program for 4th-5th graders which focuses on problem solving, logic, reasoning, reading and effective communication.

We meet weekly to work on different problem solving strategies, such as working backwards, finding patterns, drawing pictures, etc. We will have a practice sheet that we work on together and independently in class and I will provide the classroom teachers with a homework/review sheet. All of their mathletics work will be kept in a designated folder that usually stays in their classroom.

We also participate in the Perennial Math Online Competition. http://www.perennialmath.com

This competition consists of 4 tests, one per month from Jan - April. On each test, students have 30 minutes to solve 6 challenging problems. The problems are designed to be multi-step and above grade level. Therefore, it is important that we set aside our standard expectations of scores and grading scales when looking at the results of these tests. According to the director of the Perennial Math program, scoring 3 out of 6 is considered above average! For some students, scoring a 1 or a 2 will be an achievement. Your support in helping students re-frame their vision of success will be invaluable.

In addition to challenging our students mathematically, this program is also an excellent opportunity for students to practice the Essential Outcomes of perseverance, resilience and risk taking. 4th graders will take the Rookie Level Test, while 5th graders will take the Intermediate Level Test. They will be challenging! But with focus and perseverance, everyone will make gains during the year. And for those who may want even more of a challenge, I will open an Intermediate Level Team for 4th graders and an Advanced Level Team for 4th & 5th graders!

The links to the left will take you to some practice tests for each level.

I look forward to seeing your child grow and improve as a problem solver! If you have any questions about the mathletics program or how your child is doing, please don’t hesitate to contact me at snewblanc@hcsdk8.org

Below is a letter to parents from Sylvia Dean, the Director of Perennial Math.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Newblanc

Math and Science Enrichment

Certified Maker Educator

Letter to Parents:

This year your child will participate in the Perennial Math Competition for grades 3-12. The Program is designed to improve problem solving abilities by developing students’ reading, reasoning and logical skills. There will be four total Perennial Math tests this year. The first test will be in January and the last test will be in April.

The goals of the program are to develop:

• Excitement for problem solving

• Persistence and hard work

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Communication skills to demonstrate thinking

• Recognition of different approaches to problem solving

• Encouragement by learning from mistakes

The Perennial Math tests have 6 questions each month. The tests are challenging and above grade level. Scoring a 3 on a test is above average. If a student scores a 5 or 6 on a test, they will see their name on the Perennial Math website.

Solving difficult problems will take lots of practice. Please encourage your child and you will see growth by the last test. Being able to solve these difficult problems should be a rewarding experience, but students will require reassurance that they are going to improve with time, practice, and persistence.

Thank you for your assistance. We look forward to a great year of problem solving.

Sincerely,

Sylvia Dean Sylvia Dean Ed. D.

Perennial Math Director