Wednesday, March 9, 2011

"First in Math" encourage students to learn math.


I read on the internet about one inovative website that encourage students to learn math. It is called First in Math. Their website is in http://www.firstinmath.com/suntexdefault3.asp . According to the posting that I read, First in Math engaged students with math learning process as the same way as the popular online game which awarded students with award “stickers” that add to students personal and classroom score. The nice things about First in Math program is that it also keep score for all the students in the class, region and even nations. Surely it shall motivates the students to play more and earn more, but in the same time learn some math.

I had gatheres some posting from personal blog/school website that mentioned students achievement in First in Math program. Read along below after the break!

Chris Elliott, a fourth grader at Bassett Elementary School, is first in the nation so far this school year in an online math program used by 1.1 million students nationwide.

First In Math is a curriculum supplement that gives students the skills to increase their success in mathematics. Students progress at their own pace to master basic and advance mathematics skills.

Students play mathematical games online, working through more challenging content as they are successful. Every module includes positive feedback to boost confidence.

The program includes a “competition” component, which offers sustained, positive motivation. As students play, they earn award “stickers” that add to their personal and classroom score.

The program can be accessed 24/7 online. Westlake elementary students are given time during computer labs to work on the program, or work during free periods. Many students, like Chris, take the extra initiative to work on the program at home, as well.

This year’s program ends April 30. If Chris maintains his commitment to the program, he could end up on the First in Math Hall of Fame at http://www.firstinmath.com/visitor/visitor-Playerhalloffame.asp.

I admit, math isn’t my strongest subject (it’s a good thing my husband is in charge of paying the bills!). So I’m always impressed by youngsters who have a knack for working with numbers. Our Whiz Kid this week, 10-year-old Kathy Wang, is one of those students.

“I nominated Kathy as a Carlsbad Patch Whiz Kid because she is so well-rounded,” said Jennifer Carter, principal at La Costa Meadows Elementary. “She’s a good citizen, is involved in extracurricular activities and her academic performance is so impressive.”

Kathy participates in a program known as First in Math. It’s described as “a dynamic online program” that encourages students all over the country to practice math by engaging in games and getting immediate feedback. She is in the top spot at La Costa Meadows, and has racked up more than 85-hundred points!

Kathy is also in the Gifted and Talented Education Program (GATE). In May, she will travel with fellow students to Lakeside to participate in Science Field Day. The La Costa Meadows team will compete against 40 other San Diego County elementary schools and answer science-related brain teasers, such as questions about the constellations.

When she’s not hitting the books, Kathy is an ace on the tennis court. She just competed in a USTA tournament last month and came in second place.

“I have a coach and play tennis every Thursday and Saturday,” said Kathy. “I started playing when I was 7-years-old and I’ve won nine trophies!”
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