Source: I purchased a copy.
I remember reading “Ice Dogs” by this author and recommending
it to my students. When I brought this one in I didn’t get a chance to read it
first. It was checked out and passed around my room. I understand why my
students loved it so much.
Matt, the main character struggles with math and knows if he
can’t get his grades up he will be put in remedial math. My students hate being
in remedial class. I too struggled with math, so even I could identify with
Matt.
Matt is given the opportunity of an extra credit project to
keep out of the remedial class. He must create and start a business plan. What
better way to teach math than through real world experiences. He begins the
project creating a “Sled Dog School”. He learns how much he will have to
juggle.
I think what kids take away from this is that sometimes they
have to ask an adult for help. When I get those kids who are in remedial
classes and don’t give it their best because they are embarrassed, I let them
know that sometimes even adults must get extra help. I tell them that I had to
take remedial math in college and even had to repeat a math class. I want them to
understand it is okay as long as they are trying and learning.
I am glad I finally got the opportunity to read this book.
This is the perfect book to teach kids problem solving. I loved how it showed
how it is sometimes difficult to teach something to others. Just understanding
yourself doesn’t mean it is always easy to teach.
