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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Wednesday October 15, 2008 - 23 Five easy ways you can contribute at school Being involved in your child's education can be as simple as asking what they did at school or as elaborate as organizing a school event. Here are five practical ways for all parents to make a difference this school year: 1. Help in your child's classroom. Most teachers are happy for an extra pair of hands. 2. Make a presentation to your child's class about a topic they are studying. 3. Organize a fundraising event around a cause that matters to you. 4. Volunteer in the lunchroom or at recess. It will give you a chance to get to know your child's friends. 5. Attend school board meetings. You'll learn about issues and decisions impacting your child's education. - News Canada Tuesday, October 21st, 2008 Ways to build motivation this school year Explain. Some research suggests students do poorly on assignments because they do not understand what to do or why they are doing it. If teachers and parents concentrate on why some things are taught and why it is important their enthusiasm will be transmitted to students. See. Make learning visual. Memory is connected to visual images. Children can better understand and get excited about things they see first hand. Teaching children about a topic like historyby showing videos, or graphs to illustrate will help get them interested. Care. Give them something to think about beyond daily lessons. Kids are motivated by things they can throw their minds and hearts into. Find a cause kids can be passionate about and encourage them to get involved. - News Canada