Keeping the communication lines open with parents allows you to give quick feedback about their children so learning can move beyond the classroom. When contacting parents, make note of positive actions by their children before describing areas for improvement. Also consider giving parents your telephone number or setting up an email account for parent correspondence.
Stop lessons when they are going badly. Cynthia Thomas, in her book "Empowering the Beginning Teacher in Mathematics," recommends that teachers stop a lesson plan if students are not getting it. Instead, find another approach, and take time to examine why the kids were unable to connect to the material previously.
Acknowledge different learning styles. Math involves a range of often unfamiliar information, and each student learns differently. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics advises teachers to include varied activities in lesson plans, such as problem solving, skill practice, games, graphs, visuals and work with computers and calculators. Pay attention to the speed each student grasps new information, and try to accommodate the class to suit everyone's needs.
Assess students in a variety of ways. Student progress should be based on more than standardized testing. Observe students when they work individually and during group discussions to assess their understanding. Also offer solo and group projects, conduct student interviews and ask them to assess their own progress to see each person's strengths and weaknesses.
Use homework in and out of the classroom. Homework is a necessary tool for math teachers; however, homework that is not accompanied by thorough instruction may not prove successful. Instead, begin homework in the classroom to see which areas appear difficult for students, and then revise lesson plans to emphasize the challenges. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics offers a short guide for teachers on how much homework to assign students according to grade. They recommend that grades 1 to 3 receive up to 20 minutes per night; grades 4 to 6 receive 20 to 40 minutes per night; grades 7 to 9 receive up to 2 hours per night and grades 10 to 12 receive 1.5 to 2.5 hours per night.