August 1st and XtraMath

As of August 1st, my class from 2011-2012 will lose access again.  I will, at that time, create a new class consisting of my 1st grade class from '11-'12 as well as all the students entering 1st grade (last year's kindergarteners).  In order to enter, all students on that list (my class from '11-'12 and all incoming 1st graders) will need to use the email address graykr@daretolearn.org to gain access to the site as well as their first names and PIN #'s that they already have.  If you have created your own account and linked your child to it, then keep using that.  Thanks for your patience as we learn how to use this program.  :) 

Summer Packet Assignment & XtraMath Update

I hope you are all doing well getting your packets done.  I am already excited about next year!  For this assignment you are going to do some research.  The opening ceremonies for the 2012 Summer Olympics are on Friday.  Your job is to read a few sites about the Olympics and then post what you learned.  Have your family help you search for information about the 2012 Olympics.  Then, in the comment box, write 3 things you learned about the event.  To post in the box, write your message and then sign your first name.  You do not need to have an account; you can select to post anonymously.  Your answer will not appear until I release it.  I view all comments before they can be seen by others.  Have fun!

On another note, there have been some issues with XtraMath.  The classes in which the students have been enrolled ended on July 1st.  I personally am unable to reinstate those classes.  Here are two options:

Option 1:  I believe that you can make your own account and enroll your child using the name and PIN # they were originally assigned (refer to the packet or email me using my email address that I provided in the packet or find it on the school website).  I'm not exactly sure if this works because I already had a teacher account when I linked my son's account to my teacher account.  The data is stored with the XtraMath people, so you may want to contact them via email.  To contact XtraMath Help, just click the highlighted words from this sentence.  I have personally contacted them via email before and they are very prompt and extremely helpful.  You will need your child's KINDERGARTEN TEACHER'S EMAIL. For each, it is the teacher's last name and first two initials @daretolearn.org. 

Option 2:  There is another online tool for practicing math facts called AAAMath.com.  It does not store the data, but still provides online practice of math facts.  For addition, start out small with the 0, 1, 2 facts and then progress to the others when they reach a mastery of those (above 95% correct). You may use the "Practice" area or scroll down to see the 3 choices for games.  The games are more drill and practice, but add an element of fun.  If you choose this option, just initial the box where XtraMath is assigned. 

K5 Learning

This morning I checked out a site called K5 Learning.  It offers a program for families to supplement instruction.  They offer a free 14 day trial which includes a baseline assessment.  After the student takes the assessment, s/he is assigned specific activities to meet the needs of the student.  I have enrolled and watched some videos (I highly recommend watching the one that shows you how to login and work the program) and am waiting for notification that the assessment is ready for my child to take.  I also checked out a sample lesson.  Reports are available to parents in order to monitor progress.  One of my concerns is that some of the math activities do not match our curriculum.  For instance, the program includes counting money.  In first grade we explored money through calendar activities, but it was not required in our curriculum.  However, being able to count money is a life skill that everyone needs to know.  Anyway, I definitely think it's worth checking out with the free trial.  Try it out and let me know what you think by leaving a comment in the comment box!

More on XtraMath

I have heard from XtraMath. MY (my former 1st graders) class has been reactivated. Each class "ends" on July 1 - which is what caused the issue. Students linked to a school account cannot gain access. Parents can get an account (for free) and link to their student; those accounts do not expire. CHES is new to the program and still working out the kinks. If you need direct assistance from XtraMath, you can send questions to erika@xtramath.org. Although I have gotten quick and very thorough replies, please be patient. XtraMath is a free program and is offering an amazing service to so many students. :-)

In the meantime, if you want to practice addition facts online, use AAAMath.  Scroll to the blue box that says 'PRACTICE' and play.  Thanks for

XtraMath

I am having some trouble accessing XtraMath.  Some others are, as well.  I am not sure what is going on, but will try to get to the bottom of it.