Parenting
By Jamie Thompson
Updated: July 28, 2020
Originally Published: Feb. 19, 2015
Ah, the embarrassment of it all. No matter your accomplishments, a sixth-grade math worksheet can make you feel utterly defeated. Surely, we learned this once upon a time, right? Perhaps it was once tucked away in my brain, only to be ousted by an endless loop of sitcom reruns.
I find it delightful that my son enjoys math. He actually seems quite adept at it, which I attribute largely to the quality of teaching he receives—specifically from his wonderful instructor, Mr. Smith. I can’t help but think that if I had a teacher as patient and encouraging as Mr. Smith, I might still recall what the distributive property is—unlike the harsh methods of Sister Mary, who wasn’t shy about her disappointment with my answers.
Additionally, I firmly believe that no one should ever tell a child, “You will never use this again” regarding their studies. To foster a greater interest in math and science among kids, let’s replace reality singing competitions with math and science contests. Considering the number of singing shows we’ve endured, it’s clear that while many can carry a tune, fewer excel in these crucial academic fields.
The math problems below aren’t insurmountable—once you overcome your anxiety about them or figure out what x or y signifies. My colleague Laura managed to solve one in just 20 minutes, earning my admiration and a spot as my go-to partner for future endeavors. But on a busy evening, when hunger and fatigue set in, you might secretly wish for a child who can tackle it independently. If that’s not the case, you might find yourself reaching out to Mr. Smith for a little extra guidance on your math skills.
We all hope to glance at our child’s homework and say, “Good luck with that.” Yet, a quick refresher course might be what we need instead. Test yourself on my son’s homework below. If you encounter difficulties, it might be time to consider a tutor. I promise I won’t bring out the ruler.
Definition: The Distributive Property is …
When would you use the distributive property?
- a. 5 (x-8)=15
- b. 12 + 3 (n+2) = 27
- c. -4(x+3) = 8
- d. 1/2(x-14) = 3
- e. 4+2 (1 + x) = 12
Answers:
- a. x=11
- b. n=3
- c. x= -5
- d. x=20
- e. x=3
This article was originally published on Feb. 19, 2015.
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In summary, sixth-grade math can be a daunting challenge, but with the right support and resources, parents can navigate it successfully. Emphasizing the importance of math and encouraging a positive learning environment can help children thrive in these subjects.