Practice this at home...

We just finished our first unit in fifth grade math, and took our first math test. While most of the students demonstrated a good understanding of the main concepts of factors, as well as prime, composite, and square numbers, almost all of them need a refresher on place value. We will certainly work on this in class, but if you'd like to help your child at home, here are a few suggestions:

* Write down large numbers. Try to choose number with decimals, and zeroes. 300,507.52 is a good example. Then ask your child to read the number aloud to you, or to write it down in words.

* Read a large number to your child, and have him or her write it down for you.

* Using a number you or your child has written, ask her or him to point out the ten-thousands place, or the hundredths (pennies) place.

* Draw a place value chart with your child -- go from millions to hundredths. Use the chart to play place value puzzles. For example: I am thinking of a number with a three in the hundred thousands place, a seven in the millions place, a five in the tenths place, and the rest are zeroes.

* More place value games and information can be found online. Check out these websites: ToonUniversity, LinksLearning, Enchanted Learning, FactMonster, and FunBrain.

The more you can work with your child on these concepts, the stronger their understanding will be!