Case
Student refuses to do math

I have a student who refuses to do math on the computer (fastmath). If I force him to, he breaks down and throws a huge fit. Any advice to get him to do the work that is mandated by the county?

Posted on: 02/20/17 | Views: 1111
Solution #1
Top Solution
Have you worked with the student to determine why they do not want to do the math? Is it because they do not understand the program or because they cannot read or see the computer screen? There may be other underlying issues that you have not discovered yet. I would just have an honest discussion with the student in a teacher-student conference and ask what you can do to make FasstMath better for him.

Finding out the problem does always help.

i agree, you should talk to the student and see why they do not want to do that math work. if that does not work have a parent teacher conference or go to an administrator.

I agree. Do some investigative work.

Right. There may be some unknown variable here.

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Solution #2
You may have to use something that the student likes to motivate them. Like a pencil or positive reinforcement to promote that if they do their work they will be rewarded.

I agree, that having some reward for the student is a great idea. Each day he gets something small and every week he goes without a fighting and having a tantrum about doing the math, than he can get a bigger prize at the end of each week.

I really like this solution!

That's true. Maybe the student doesn't feel motivated.

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Solution #3
Maybe you can let him work with a pencil and paper at the computer and just let him know he just needs to click the answers. Is there a way you could print out the questions for him to complete away from the computer? He will not be getting the technology integration but at least he is getting the work done. I know it is tough to have to deal with a student like this but hopefully you can get to the bottom of the problem and your days will be easier!
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Solution #4
with the student, it is important to discuss why he breaks down. sometimes i've noticed people don't like the brightness of the computer screen. so if that is the issue you can get a screen dimmer. or if he is just struggling with the content see what you can do to help him feel comfortable getting on the computer.
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Solution #5
Definitely talk to the student privately to see what the issue is. If it is a simple I don't want to do it, then take corrective action like lunch detention, no recess, time out, go to the principle, etc. If it is that they do not understand it, then have the school organize a learning plan for him to catch up and not get so frustrated. Keep in touch with mom and dad and make sure they are working with him so that he can continue to do better or even suggest a tutor.
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Solution #6
turn it into a worksheet. I would print out the problems and have him work with a pen or pencil instead.
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Solution #7
Maybe he doesn't know how to complete the work. If it is allowed, maybe team him up with a partner and they can work on it together. Or spend time special time with this individual while they are doing their math. Make yourself available to help them if they need assistance.
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Solution #8
I believe there is an underlying problem. They might have a problem with the computer or doesn't understand how to do the work. I would sit with him individually and explain that this is something that needs to be done and you are here to help. Do some investigative work and if it's still a problem contact the parents.
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Solution #9
If I were in this situation, I would talk to the student and ask him why he does not want to do it. It could be because he does not want it to make him feel stupid or others to put him down if he does not understand the material. I believe that open communication in a classroom is important.
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Solution #10
I would try and find out if it is the content, or the outlet that the student has trouble with. The teacher may need to take time and work with the student and see that they understand how to do the work. I would then set up a reward program based on the progress of the student on the computer.
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Solution #11
The student may be having difficulty understanding the math that is required. You could sit with the student and discuss the problem. Ask the student if they understand what they are being asked to do.
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Solution #12
I have a student who does the same thing, she refuses to do anything in math when her peers are around but if I pull her one on one she is more compliant. Allowing the student to work on paper under a timer like what was done for speed math before technology may be a good short term solution while trying to find out why the student refuses to use the program.
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Solution #13
Maybe this student has a fear? Talk to the child and see what the problem is with working on the computer, maybe it's not math, maybe it's his comfort level with working on a computer.
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Solution #14
First, find out the underlying problem, motivation, struggling reader, computer issues. Once you find out what causes his frustration, you can fix it. Maybe there is a different program that fits the same criteria?
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Solution #15
Instead of having this student to math assignments on the computer print out the math and have him answer the questions on paper and see if his behavior changes.
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Solution #16
Give incentives to completing classwork and work one on with the student as much as possible

I don't think that doing the work is the problem if he's throwing this big of a fit every time. Especially if he does all his other work.

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Solution #17
Rewarding the student with something small (without the knowledge of their piers). This will encourage them to want to complete the math problems on the computer.
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Solution #18
Make math fun with games and group activities.
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Solution #19
turn it into a worksheet. I would print out the problems and have him work with a pen or pencil instead.
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Solution #20
Sometimes the math may be too difficult. In this situation, try to find alternative math that they could complete to help build their basic math skills. If the student just doesn't like math, I would try to have them work with someone. A student partner is a first choice, one-on-one with the teacher would be great (if you had any time), or if you could set something up with a specialist, perhaps another teacher who specializes in math.
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Solution #21
I would have to explain the importance to him. Then if he doesn't act right send a note home to his parents so they can try and handle it.

It's your job, not the parents.

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