During our math lessons yesterday and today, we have been working on changing improper fractions to mixed numbers.  In order to do this, you need to divide.  In order to divide, you have to know your times tables.  As I walked around the room, I noticed that the majority of the 5th graders DID NOT know how to divide.  This was because they DO NOT have their times tables memorized.

As a 5th grade teacher, this is very disappointing.  The students were told last June, September and were reminded in December to memorize their multiplication tables.  This was MANDATORY!  Multiplication and division are topics that were started in 3rd grade.  I expected that my 5th graders knew these math skills already.

Since most of the 5th graders need to practice their multiplication & division skills, the students will be getting extra math homework every night.  They will have to complete their regular homework on the day's lesson (fractions) and also complete a workbook page or worksheet to practice their multiplication or division skills.

Please know that the extra homework is MANDATORY, not optional!  ALL the students need to practice.  This is NOT a punishment.  This is to help the students.  If they do not have these skills down, they will fall further & further behind in math, especially as they progress into junior high and high school.

Please encourage your child to MEMORIZE their multiplication and division tables.  Thank you for your cooperation & support.