Simon, who is 11, isn't doing particularly well in math. The other night, we sat at the kitchen table to work on the multiplying and subtracting of mixed numerals, and what I discovered upon looking closely at his test was that Simon actually does understand fractions, for the most part. So when I say he's not doing well in math, this means, actually, that Simon is not slowing down enough to do well in math. The theories he's got down, for the most part. The motivation to do well, he does not. We reviewed the concepts, and then I stressed the importance of taking the time needed to do a good job. We talked about why grades are important, as faulty a system as that may be, and why he needs to try to get those grades up. And then I brought up diabetes. Diabetes is the elephant in every room, even though the type 1 diabetic himself was elsewhere in the house. A calculator there, test strip here, vials in the frig. With diabetes, I told Simon, we do much the same kinds of math...
Exciting! Can't wait for the Author night. Awesome work, you are an inspiration, super grateful our paths have crossed.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vanessa! I am glad you are in my life.
DeleteFascinating piece, Amy. What's type of HS is he in? I'm just curious about the class/ethnic issues that he might be facing.
ReplyDeleteFascinating piece, Amy. What sort of HS is it? I'm interested in the possible class/ethnic issues behind the story.
ReplyDeleteThank you. The drug story, you mean? A public high school. And those are good questions. I have a picture of this kid in my head, but I never bothered to ask Simon the specifics.
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