Math Checkups

Third Grade

Ask this question, then hand over a ruler! You can snip a hair at the base to make it easy.

Using a ruler is one of the most obvious life skills learned in school. Fractions are as well.

Even in the age of video games and social media, we still live in three dimensions – and want our kids to understand physical space.

…or for the more gadget-oriented, ask how long we’ve had the phone (Alexander Graham Bell invented it in 1876).

This exploration of fun trivia is actually sneaking in four-digit subtraction.

This exercise ensures your child understands regrouping. Otherwise, the wheels come off the cart when they reach long division.

If your child needs more work on this skill, watch Khan Academy’s videos on subtraction with regrouping.

Ask your child how many square feet his/her bedroom is. Offer a measuring tape if needed to find the dimensions.

This is a real-life example of calculating area — far more interesting than the blank rectangles on the homework.

Area problems show multiplication in action. And someday your child will need to gut-test the realtor’s claims.

Wondering what to do next? Talk to your kid’s teacher.