Problems involve basic math skills in both number and word problems, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, as well as more complicated measures like decimals, fractions, integers, ratios and rational numbers. Students can use calculators during testing, so the children should have a solid understanding of how to use a calculator for these math skills. Board games and card games also teach children about addition and subtraction in a fun way.
This portion of the test tracks basic geometry skills. Students are asked to measure angles, triangles and other geometric shapes. They should be familiar with all the parts and be able to calculate the circumference and perimeter of each object using geometric techniques and tools. Working with the child on real-life problems around the house, such as figuring out the volume of water needed to fill a backyard pool, or how to measure the square footage of a room, will reinforce the real-life uses for geometry.
Students should be able to draw circles and identify the radius, diameter, center and circumference. Working in both two and three dimensions, they should be able to label the parts of an angle and a triangle and identify parallel, perpendicular and intersecting lines. Help the child figure out how to measure the height of a house using angles. Use street grids to identify parallel, perpendicular and intersecting streets as you walk through the neighborhood.
The student is challenged to read, create, analyze and interpret graphs and charts. A clear understanding of mean, mode, median and range is expected. The student also needs to understand the concept of probability. Games such as tic-tac-toe and connect the dots will introduce the concept of probability, as does rolling dice and flipping a coin. Have the child make up graphs that relate to the family and analyze the data.
The student should be able to find patterns in data, solve money problems and handle consumer math. Basic algebra is introduced as another way of solving simple addition or subtraction. The student should also be able to recognize math symbols. Make up word math problems where the student has to figure out the solution using "x." For example, if you can travel to church in 20 minutes going 50 miles per hour, how long would it take if you were traveling at 45 miles per hour?