Answer to Question 1
Responses will vary and should include children having their own books, being able
to freely read them, utilizing a combination of phonics and the whole-language
approach, and connecting reading to other areas of study. For math, suggested
strategies are emphasizing basic skills and a broader conceptual approach that
includes problem solving, estimating, and probability, along with convincing students
that they are good at math. Parents may assist by taking an active interest in their
children's schoolwork, having their children read to them, and having children
participate in activities at home that involve math such as measuring, cooking,
shopping, and so forth.
Answer to Question 2
The No Child Left Behind Act was established to impose achievement standards
and assessment requirements on public schools, signaling a greater federal
involvement in education. The law was enacted to address the concern that children
were not learning enough. The intended outcomes are increased learning, especially
in reading and math, and achievement at a standard level.