Online games that promote thinking and build math skills

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
October 4, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Online games that promote math skills

245: Online games that promote thinking and build math skills

Dennis DiNoia from Mr.D Math is our guest and he shares some of his favorite games that promote thinking and build math skills.

Online games mentioned in this episode

You can find Dennis at
Mr. D Math
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube

—————————————————————————————————————-
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology in your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

Online games that promote thinking and build math skills

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Filed Under: Homeschooling with Technology Tagged With: , , ,

Replay | Mistakes Teaching Math

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
July 24, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Mistakes Teaching Math | We all make mistakes teaching math but in this episode, we will learn that these can be overcome. Today's guest discusses the program Pat Murray created. | #podcast #CTCMath #homeschoolpodcast #teachingmathMistakes Teaching Math – Episode 369

We all make mistakes teaching math but in this episode, we will learn that these can be overcome. Today’s guest is CTCMath and spokesperson Nadim El-Rahi.

Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math.com

CTCMath.com | Math Curriculum

Not being a great math student until I became a homeschool mom, I was interested in what CTCMath had to offer. My guest Nadim was a student of the founder. Pat Murray. Pat was Nadim’s high school math teacher. The two formed a bond and kept in touch. Years later, Nadim would work with CTCMath. Pat teaches the online courses, and there ‘is also a free trial that you can do. The trial gives the user a little bit about the different lessons, to test out the system before you buy, which is wonderful. That’s CTC math.com, but we’re going to talk about some of the most prominent mistakes teachers make when teaching math. And so you’re going to share that with us.

Mistakes Teaching Math:

Long Explanations

The biggest teaching mistake the long drawn out explanation. Sometimes as parents, homeschool parents, and teachers, we think that more information is better and it’s actually the opposite. Students can often get lost and confused in a long, drawn-out explanation. So if we can just keep the teaching to a short, concise explanation that’s best and most effective when, when it comes to teaching math, um, you can use your time. There may be twenty minutes of explanation and then ten minutes of practice problems. Well, that time is probably better spent doing five minutes of explanation and twenty-five minutes of practice problems. Complicated explanations that show too many diverse methods is also an issue. We think that if we equip the children with more information, it’s going to lead to, better grades and a better toolkit, but often students just need one method, the simplest method, the easiest method for them to understand now is that first method doesn’t work. You might want to try a second method, but the risks can sometimes be that we show the students too many diverse methods and that can often complicate them. And you see it in, in advancements in the curriculum and changes in curriculum and current eyes, uh, traditionally used to be just the traditional methods that were taught. So more and more you see these popping up.

Rote Learning Isn’t a Bad Idea

Another of the mistakes in teaching math is thinking rote learning is a bad idea. Students need only to use discovery learning and believe the hype around the need to discover things and conceptualize things on their own. I’m sure it has its place, at an age-appropriate time. But I always use the analogy of a Rubik’s cube. You can give a child a Rubik’s cube and tell them to solve it. They’re going to spend hours and hours and hours trying to work it out. And most of the time they will probably give it up. But you can show them a simple algorithm and a simple way to solve the root issue. Now, once they’ve done that and I’ve worked out how to do it using the simple pattern, you can see that confidence is lifted. They want to find a bigger Rubik’s Cube, and they want to go on and do more. And maybe that’s when you allow the discovery learning to take place. It is very important in the early grade levels, ensuring that students can instantly recall their math facts. It builds confidence and sets them up for later years too, to really enjoy math more. So this idea that discovery learning and children really need, to work it out on their own, I think is, is a big hype. That’s, beating a lot of confidence in children. But I think the important thing is to learn what your child likes. And then it’s almost like love languages, you know, working out your child’s love language will work out what component of math they enjoy and really pursuing it.

Math Can Be Fun!

Math is not enjoyable. I think the feedback that we get is confidence is that their confidence is down, that they no longer enjoy math is that it’s difficult. We, as parents and educators have to work on how are we going to get their confidence back up. How are we going to try to make math more enjoyable? And often it’s through the understanding of math. When I started to understand it you will see light bulbs and the aha moments begin to click and they want to do more and more of it, then we hear from countless parents that we can’t get them off the math anymore. So it’s really figuring out how to get their confidence up, how to get them really enjoying math again through understanding.

On a side note, the homeschooling movement in Australia is wonderful and growing. The homeschool community is building and growing. The creator of CTCMath, Pat Murray, homeschooled their children.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS

Filed Under: Vintage Homeschool Moms Tagged With: , , ,

Embracing Math: Why Homeschoolers Shouldn’t Shy Away from Numbers

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
July 17, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Embracing Math | Homeschooling parents should embrace math

When it comes to homeschooling, parents have the unique opportunity to tailor their children’s education to their individual needs and interests, including the opportunity to embrace math.

While some subjects may come naturally and spark excitement, others can be met with resistance, and math often falls into the latter category for many homeschooling parents.

However, despite personal preferences or challenges, it is crucial for homeschoolers to embrace math and recognize its significance in their children’s educational journey.

In this blog post, we will explore why homeschoolers should not shy away from math, even if it isn’t their favorite subject.

1. Building Foundational Skills:

Mathematics provides a foundation for logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning. These skills are not only essential for various academic disciplines but also for real-life situations. Embracing math from an early age enables homeschoolers to develop strong foundational skills that will benefit them throughout their lives, both academically and professionally.

2. Fostering Critical Thinking:

Mathematics is not merely about numbers and calculations; it is about developing critical thinking skills. Homeschoolers who engage with math learn to analyze problems, break them down into manageable steps, and think creatively to find solutions. These problem-solving skills are invaluable in every aspect of life, from managing finances to making informed decisions.

3. Enhancing Everyday Life:

Mathematics is deeply intertwined with our everyday lives, even if we don’t always notice it. From calculating expenses, understanding measurements, and interpreting statistics to making informed decisions about time management and resource allocation, math is a fundamental skill that helps us navigate the complexities of the modern world. By embracing math, homeschoolers will gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and be better equipped to make informed choices.

4. Preparing for Higher Education and Careers:

Math plays a significant role in numerous academic disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, and even fields such as business and economics. By embracing math, homeschoolers set themselves up for success in higher education and future careers. Having a solid mathematical foundation opens doors to various fields of study and increases opportunities for homeschoolers in a rapidly evolving job market.

5. Overcoming Challenges:

It is not uncommon for parents to feel less confident in teaching math compared to other subjects. However, it is crucial to recognize that struggling with a subject does not mean homeschoolers should avoid it altogether. Embracing math presents an opportunity for growth, both for the student and the parent. It encourages homeschooling parents to step outside their comfort zones, seek help when needed, and adopt creative teaching strategies that cater to their child’s learning style.

Embrace Math, Homeschool Mama

As homeschoolers, it is vital to provide our children with a well-rounded education that includes all core subjects, even if some of them are not our personal favorites. Embracing math is crucial for the holistic development of homeschoolers, as it builds foundational skills, fosters critical thinking, enhances everyday life, and prepares them for higher education and future careers. By overcoming personal challenges and embracing math, homeschooling parents empower their children to thrive academically and succeed in the ever-changing world. So, let’s encourage our homeschoolers to embrace math and embark on an exciting journey of discovery and growth.

This blog post is thanks to our sponsor, CTC Math. Homeschoolers can save 1/2 off! Learn more by clicking the image below.

 

Filed Under: Blog, Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show Tagged With: , , ,

Geography Just Around the Corner

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
June 12, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #188, Geography Just Around the Corner, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Geography Just Around the Corner

In this short little podcast “Geography Just Around the Corner,” Episode, #188, Meredith Curtis shows you how to take a walk around your neighborhood to notice all the geography there – landforms, flora, fauna, climate, and more. Children will open their eyes to new things and geography will become simple to understand.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions April 2020 Ad

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

Whether you are teaching geography or not this year, whet your children’s appetite for geography by observing and exploring the geography all around you – right in your neighborhood!

Landforms

What landforms are in your neighborhood?

  • Mountains
  • Hills
  • Lakes
  • Rivers
  • Streams
  • Waterfalls
  • Islands
  • Desert
  • Grasslands
  • Forest
  • Rain Forest

Start with your backyard

Elevation

Photo Scavenger Hunt

Flora & Fauna

Plants & Animals are everywhere! Don’t’ forget the birds!

Binoculars

Photo Scavenger Hunt

Weather / Climate

Keep a weather chart

Find patterns

Extreme Weather

Fitting It All Together

How does it all fit together?

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

US Geography Resources

Jr High US Geography

US Geography Junior High - Online Course at True North Homeschool Academy Travel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis Travel God's World Cookbook by Meredith Curtis
Travel God's World God Bless the USA Exploring States & Territories by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions Travel God's World God Bless the USA Cookbook by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions God Bless the USA State Capitals & Abbreviations by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc. Travel God's World God Bless the USA State Flags & Seals by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions

 

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | RSS | More

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Map God’s World the Fun Way

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
June 5, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #187, Map God’s World the Fun Way, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Map God’s World the Fun Way

In “Mapping God’s World the Fun Way,” Episode, #187, Meredith Curtis shares out-of-the-box creative ways to map God’s amazing world. From using large outline maps and cooking/coloring in to map contests and mapping on the bathroom wall, who says mapping can’t be fun? Get back to basic mapping the world and have a blast!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions April 2020 Ad

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

God’s Word tells us that the earth belongs to Him and all the people who live in it (Psalm 24:1) and Jesus told us to make disciples of all nations starting right where we are and moving across the entire world (Matthew 28:19 and Acts 1:8). Best of all, He loves all the people in the entire world so much that He sent Jesus so anyone who believes in Him will have everlasting life! (John 3:16). That’s exciting!

As a homeschool mom, I want to teach my children about the world God made and loves. If God calls them to go to Calcutta to share the Gospel, I want them to know where it is!

Little Ones Map Continents & Oceans

Start with blank outline maps of the entire world. Give children crayons or let them dictate names of the continents and the oceans.

Puzzles

Older Children Landform Map

Here are some of the Basic Landforms Children Should be able to Map by the time they are starting high school:

  • Andes Mountains
  • Amazon River
  • Patagonian Desert
  • Argentinean Pampas
  • Amazon Rain Forest
  • Nile River
  • Congo River
  • Sahara Desert
  • Kalahari Desert
  • Congo Rain Forest
  • Ganges River
  • Yangtze River
  • Tigris River
  • Euphrates River
  • Jordan River
  • Arabian Desert
  • Gobi Desert
  • Manchurian Plain
  • Mongolian Plain
  • Kazakh Steppe
  • Himalaya Mountains
  • Daintree River
  • Great Victoria Desert
  • Australian Savanna
  • Daintree Rain Forest
  • Great Dividing Range
  • Mississippi River
  • Great Basin Desert
  • Canadian Prairies
  • American Great Plains
  • Rocky Mountains
  • Sierra Nevada Mountains
  • Danube River
  • Rhine River
  • Great Hungarian Plain
  • Alps
  • Caucasus Mountains
  • Ring of Fire

Political Map Fun

Continue with Outline Maps – Filling in

Map Contests

Compare Political Maps from Different Time Periods – Overlay maps are great for this

Geography Cookbook & An Outline Map

Geographical Fiction

Seterra Online Quiz Game

Mapping the Bathroom Wall

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

US Geography Resources

Jr High US Geography

US Geography Junior High - Online Course at True North Homeschool Academy Travel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis Travel God's World Cookbook by Meredith Curtis
Travel God's World God Bless the USA Exploring States & Territories by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions Travel God's World God Bless the USA Cookbook by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions God Bless the USA State Capitals & Abbreviations by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc. Travel God's World God Bless the USA State Flags & Seals by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions

 

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | RSS | More

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I Love Homeschooling But I Hate Teaching Math – HIRL Episode 31

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
May 17, 2023 by Leave a Comment

hate mathHate math? And I hate teaching science. And writing. Or . . .

Let’s get real homeschoolers. Most of us have at least one subject we don’t enjoy teaching. What? That is difficult to justify when we are the ones in charge of teaching all the subjects.

So what is a homeschooling parent supposed to do when there are core subjects that must be covered, but there is no motivation by mom or dad to get that subject done every week, or they feel unqualified to teach it?

In this episode of HomeschoolingIRL, Fletch and Kendra discuss the reality of teaching multiple subjects to multiple grade levels and resources for getting some help. Join them as they encourage their listeners to think a little bit outside of the proverbial box.

Episode Timeline for I Love Homeschooling But I Hate Teaching Math

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath, a wonderful Math curriculum for the entire family of school-aged children. This one-stop shop has grades K-12; check it out. Homeschoolers can save 50%!


5:28 Studio Discussion Part 1 (Sponsored by Compass Classroom) – Sharing our strengths and weaknesses
14:00 Studio Discussion Part 2 (Sponsored by Grapevine Studies) – Staying a step ahead
20:47 Studio Discussion Part 3 – Practical suggestions from Fletch and Kendra
30:14 Listener questions – Fletch’s tie-dye wardrobe and parenting with grace.
35:18 Advent Resources/Interview with Amanda White from Truth in the Tinsel

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Android | Email | RSS

 

Join Fletch (from theMangoTimes) and Kendra (from Preschoolers and Peace) for the HomeschoolingIRL podcast every two weeks as they interview guests and talk through some of the goofiness they have experienced in nearly two decades of Homeschooling In Real Life.

 

Enjoy this podcast? Try these:

6 Reasons Your Child Hates to Write

I Hate Homeschooling Let Me Tell You Why

Filed Under: Homeschooling IRL Tagged With: , , , , ,

Math Success in High School

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
May 15, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #186, Math Success in High School, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Math Success in High School

In “Math Success in High School,” Episode, #186, Meredith Curtis talks about that subject that many homeschool moms dread – MATH! High school success is easier than you think. You need confidence, a game plan, good study habits, and sometimes help from outside the home. You will be encouraged from this podcast and have a workable plan to move forward.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions April 2020 Ad

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

If you don’t like Math, don’t tune me out.

4 Reasons Students Do Poorly in Math

  1. They think they can’t do it
  2. They have poor study habits when it comes to Math
  3. They do it in spurts rather than consistently
  4. Moms are afraid of Math and pass on the fear

What’s Great about Math?

  • Concrete – right or wrong
  • Incremental
  • Teaches Problem-Solving
  • Exercise for the Brain
  • Exercise for our Logic Muscle

Why Kids Can Be Confident in Math

  • Each child is fearfully and wonderfully made
  • Each child can do ALL THINGS through Christ who gives us strength
  • Negative Voices in the Head can be Silenced
  • Study Habits & Game Plan are Key in Conqueroring Math

Game Plan & Study Habits

  • Do Math first thing (or as soon as you are awake) 4-5 times a week
  • Lead from Success to Success to Success
  • Learn each concept well before moving on (fractions, decimals, borrowing, order of operation, making 10)
  • Memorize Multiplication Tables
  • Memorize Basic Formulas

My Experience with Math

  • Early years to High school
  • Challenges & What I Did
  • Getting Help

Get Help!

  • Tutoring
  • Online Classes
  • Tutoring & Online Classes both Available at True North Homeschool Academy
  • Leanne – Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Algebra II

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

Online Math Classes 

Check out all the great classes at True North Homeschool Academy!

8th Grade Math and PreAlgebra with Leanne Benjamin at True North Homeschool Academy Algebra I with Leanne Benjamin at True North Homeschool Academy Algebra 2 with Leanne Benjamin at True North Homeschool Academy

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | RSS | More

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Math is a good tool for learning to think critically

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
May 3, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Math is a good tool for learning to think critically

228: Math is a good tool for learning to think critically

Today’s guest is Elizabeth Weaver and she loves math and is enthusiastic about its ability to aid us to think critically! Elizabeth lectures at Roane State Community College, a homeschool co-op, and also teaches the Agebra 2 class at show sponsor FundaFunda Academy.

In this episode, Elizabeth answers these 4 questions:

1 Why is critical thinking important?

2. Why is math a good tool to practice it?

3. Why are word problems important?

4. What should parents look for in a math curriculum?

Overall takeaway – realize the potential math has to help your children think critically and make sure the curriculum you use achieves this. Listen to the full episode to learn more.

—————————————————————————————————————-
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology in your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

Math is a good tool for learning to think critically

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Filed Under: Homeschooling with Technology Tagged With: , , , ,

Find a Math Curriculum That Works

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
October 10, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Finding a math curriculum that works for your family can be a challenge! With CTCMath, all of your kids from K-12 can learn at their own pace with one family subscription.

That’s right! With a CTCMath membership, you have access to all grades and lessons, which means your children can work at whatever level is best for them.

Whether your kid needs to catch up, keep up, or move ahead, with CTCMath, they can finally understand math and work at their own pace.

CTCMath is offering Media Angels readers a half-price discount plus a bonus 6 months when you register for a 12-month membership. That means you can access a complete online homeschool math curriculum for all your kids for 18 months! Just use this link by October 16 to access this deal!

Nervous making significant online purchases? CTCMath comes with a 12-month money-back guarantee. No questions asked! Just email CTCMath, if you change your mind.

How does CTCMath work?

A student starts by watching a short, to-the-point video lesson that presents the concepts of the math lesson step by step. Because it’s a video tutorial, they can stop and rewind the teacher as many times as they need to until they get it (and the teacher never gets annoyed or frustrated).

Following each math tutorial, there are interactive questions or an optional printable worksheet that tests the understanding of key concepts. Answers are entered into the CTCMath automated marking system, which then stores the results in each individual student’s ongoing progress report.

Not sure WHY their answer is wrong? After answers have been submitted, printable, fully-worked solutions become available. These show every step which should be taken to reach the correct answer, ensuring your child really understands the math concepts.

CTCMath’s multi-sensory approach to ensure retention plus detailed progress reports for the parents adds up to a whole lot less stress when it’s math time for both parents and kids!

Here’s what Teresa has to say:

“Straight into college math after a great SAT score.”

We love CTCMath, We have tried almost everything with our 5 kids, and we no longer have tears when it comes to math.

Our oldest graduated last year, and even though he only used CTC for less than two years, his math improved so much that he did great on his SAT test and went right into regular college math and is doing great.

God Bless from a little less stressed mom.

Teresa Schilling
East Troy, WI

310-281-2217

www.ctcmath.com       info@ctcmath.com
Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: , , ,

Special Replay: Cornerstone of Math

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
February 8, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Cornerstone of Math Replay with the Brain Coach, Dr. Jan BedellSpecial Replay this week from The Brain Coach: Is your child struggling with math? Do you have a gifted child that needs to secure a good math foundation that will let them soar? Is your 5, 9 or 15 year old having trouble remembering their math facts? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, this is the podcast for you!

Dr. Jan will lead you through the foundation and cornerstone of math.

Foundation:
1. Rote counting – Counting CD
2. Understanding quantity – first count accurately, then be able to look at fingers, pictures on a page, and dice and be able to recognize the quantity
3. Counting from any random number to a specific number
4. Skip Counting
5. Concept of math operations:
a. What is addition, subtraction, multiplication or division?
b. Progression through the different aspects of each operation, i.e. multi-digit addition all the way through 2 and 3 digit division. This progression is made available through Visual Circle Math
(downloadable & printed copy), a way to advance quickly through understanding of concepts if a child is advanced in math. Great also for remediation if a child is struggling with math as
they can go at their own pace. Also available in: Visual Circle Math (download only)

6. Word problems – holding pieces together long enough to figure out what is important information requires good auditory processing.

 

Get your free Auditory Processing Test Kit at LittleGiantSteps.com
Cornerstone:
Math Facts – Rapid Recall System be sure to choose the operation you want (addition, subtraction, etc. or get all four operations at a major discount).
See handout for special Ultimate Home School Radio discounts on all products mentioned on today’s podcast.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Android | Email | RSS | More

Filed Under: Brain Coach Tips Tagged With: , ,
Next Page »