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Ontario’s Math Struggles Spark Provincial Review of Student Testing

Ontario’s latest standardized test results reveal that math achievement remains a serious concern across the province , with many students failing to meet expected benchmarks. The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) released its 2024–2025 assessment data this week, showing that only 51% of Grade 6 students and 58% of Grade 9 students met the provincial math standard , while Grade 3 students fared slightly better at 64%. Despite modest improvements compared to previous years, the results underscore a persistent gap in student performance. Education Minister Paul Calandra acknowledged that progress has been too slow, announcing the creation of a two-member advisory body to review Ontario’s approach to standardized testing and curriculum delivery . The review will examine whether current teaching strategies, resources, and assessment methods are effectively supporting student learning. The EQAO results also highlighted disparities among student groups and school boards ,...

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How to Train Your Brain Like a Pro: Five Science-Backed Tips from Neuroscientists

Your brain is the most complex and powerful organ in your body, and it needs proper care and maintenance to function optimally. Neuroscientists, who study the brain and nervous system, have some tips on how to keep your brain healthy and sharp as you age. Here are five simple habits you can adopt to boost your brain power, according to neuroscientists.

  • Brain health industry boom: The global industry of products and services that claim to support brain health is valued at US $140-billion and expected to grow rapidly, partly due to the projected rise of cognitive disorders in the aging population.
  • Healthy lifestyle choices: Experts say that exercising regularly, abstaining from cigarettes and alcohol, and spending quality time with loved ones can reduce the risk of brain disease by as much as 30 per cent.
  • Hidden threat of social media: Experts warn that social media addictions can erode attention span and hinder deep thought, and suggest replacing scrolling with more cognitively stimulating activities, such as digital games, creative pursuits, reading fiction, or meditation.
  • Best daily practices for brain training: Experts recommend five daily practices that can improve memory, attention, creativity, and social cognition: physical activity, digital games, a creative pursuit, quality time with loved ones, and meditation or self-reflection.

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