Prime and Composite Nightmare

No matter how many songs, chants or tricks I teach my students, they seem to still confuse prime and composite numbers. I teach them the divisibility rules but the most common mistake is they think if its an ODD number, it is automatically prime. With 5th Grade Texas STAAR test being less than a month away, I'm hoping to review this skill through warm up, exit slips and homework to give them more practice.

One of the main issues I notice when teaching prime/composite numbers is the lack of fluency with their math facts. Students in 5th grade should be fluent up to their 12's but I have students who still struggle with 8's and 9's. I know teachers think teaching them finger tricks works but I have an "old school" way of thinking and I think it boils down to memorization. I have a daily center where students can go and study and drill each other on Math facts. The more fluent the students are with their facts, the better their understanding will be when it comes to knowing their factors. What are some strategies you use in your classroom?

STAAR Testing Fastly Approaching

Parents,
The STAAR test is quickly approaching and helping prep your child will help them with their success. Please make sure your child is in the bed on time the night before and eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the test. The STAAR test is timed unless your child has some accomodations in place that allows extended time. Have a talk with your child on how important this test is and how imperative it is for them to do their best. Please mark the testing dates on your calendar for the first 3 days of testing. More April dates are coming soon.