Teacher Discussion Forums

I need suggestions to give the 8th grade mainstream Math teacher
on things my newcomers can do during Math class to make the class time worthwhile. I'm giving them vocabulary cards for key mathematical concepts on which they write the word, definition, and a mathematical example, but I need more ideas. I'd appreciate any suggestions!

Math is one of those classes where not many accomodations should even be necessary. That is, if the students have a decent background and are on grade level in math. They can do calculations and algebra. Your explanations aren't going to help newcomers much so I simply suggest lots of modeling.

With my newcomers it has been most helpful for me to have them start straight on the assignment with less beating around the bush. Do a few problems together, and they should be able to finish by themselves.