[NABS-L] struggling in math classes

[Mausam Mehta]

Hey Maura,
So this one’s a little tricky. From what I’ve noticed, you either like math or you don’t. Your success in the class generally depend on how much you understand the material, and how much work/time you put into it. From what you said here, it seems that you are receiving all the materials, and The next step is being able to really understand and study them affectively.
One of the things I might suggest is trying to get as much of your materials in braille as possible. I think it really makes a difference being able to see it all written out on paper. I understand, however, that it’s really hard to get a hold of braille for a lot of people, depending on TVI services and fun things like that. So if you can’t get hard copies, maybe try reading in entering your mathematical notation into a refreshable braille Device like a notetaker or a braille display hooked up to a computer. I feel like a hypocrite saying all of this, because by the time I reached Calc 3, I did all of my math work on a computer with jaws. But I definitely think that braille, if you have access to it and if that is what you are comfortable with, will make a difference.
Another thing I might suggest is talking directly to your teacher. Maybe ask for sometime during the week where you can really hammer down some of these concepts, presented in a different way than in class. Usually, an alternative explanation has a lot of merit and can reframe the material so that it makes more sense.
The final piece of advice I can offer is to be a little easier on yourself. I totally understand the drive to get a perfect 4.0, especially in high school. There's so much pressure to be at the top, with college apps and scholarships. But you also have to remember that you're trying your hardest, and that's enough. If you don't get an a plus in this class, it's ok. There's so much more about you that will stand out than a grade in math.
Sorry for the mini sermon. Call or text me any time if you need to go over anything.
Best,


Mausam Mehta
Board member | National Association of blind students
A proud division of the National Federation of the blind
(540) 466-6033
mausam.mehta.nfb at gmail.com
|
www.nabslink.org

> On Nov 13, 2018, at 6:39 PM, Maura Loberg via NABS-L <nabs-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Hey everybody, I am having a problem that is not necesarily urgent but I would like your ideas in a timely fashion. I am working to earn and keep a 4.0 in school, and in my other classes, this is happening. Unfortunately, I am majorly struggling with the math class required as a senior, it is Algebra II. I have never been good at math, and it seems that no matter what I do, I can't get decent grades on assignments and tests. I have a paid tutor who helps me understand certain things and fills the holes left by my instructor. I understand the materials well enough I believe, but I am having issues executing on paper. Are there any methods that you guys have used to study/understand/take notes/test in these courses. I will have to take college  math so these ideas will definitely be put to good use. This is extremely frustrating since I have As in just about everything else, and I just can't seem to get my math grades to where I want them, no matter what I try. Thanks for your help in advance!
> 
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