One thing about working "faster" or the "pace" of a course is simply accomplished by the testing out option. In our middle school (Connected Math curriculum), there is a pre-test for each unit. If kids scored 85%, they move on to the next pre-test. The downside is if all they're doing is pre-testing, because they needed to be placed one or more grades above the original placement. DS11 was not happy doing 7th grade pretests. Finally, the school let him and 3 others jump to Alg 1. Another way to accomplish more appropriate pace is to modify homework assignments. For "mathy" kids, 110 problems a night is not going to help them. A few problems per concept is sufficient. I make sure I include these two items in their IEPs each year (testing out and modified/abbreviated homework assignments).
I completely agree about math contests being very good for depth, and have asked the school to re-instate a Math Club. The teacher is doing her doctorate work, so I don't have confidence she has the time to do this. If I were interested in starting a Math Club, do you have suggestions about how to do it? I know the key would be to find a tutor to lead (because I don't think I am up on my math enough to lead them). The school has limited resources to pay a tutor/mentor. Or maybe I could do it? I don't like leaving it up to a teacher who has other committments and may or may not follow through.
Let me know if you have suggestions for how to start a math club/team. Thank you!
Last edited by cym; 05/16/08 04:57 AM.
