About the Language of Math and
the Importance of Learning it Well
the Importance of Learning it Well
Math is a Language
Math is a language. And when approached in this manner, students experience that, once the language is learned, math is far easier than they had previously imagined. This approach not only removes much of the mystery and fear out of the subject, it also helps students to see significant success is completely attainable. This realization often removes an immense weight from the shoulders of a struggling student. Few students strive in an emotional free fall towards failure. So those who are struggling in math must obtain help, but they must also do their part to learn and apply basic rules. Also necessary is continual practice over any problem / concept causing difficulties. And this practce must continue until lasting and measurable success is obtained.
It is much like the route a student takes upon missing a certain word on a spelling test. What is the solution? Do we see students in this situation stressed out and convincing themselves they will never be able to successfully render various words with accuracy? Not at all. A student will go home, write out the word (or words) missed 10-20 times, use it in a sentence 2 or 3 times, and then endeavor to use it in conversation whenever possible. Very soon, that word becomes an old friend.
The approach should be no different in mathematics. Students must identify the weakness and/or error and regularly work problems involving those troublesome concepts until strong ability and 100% comprehension become realities. It is a process, and it often takes time. But it is time well spent.
Math is a Tool
Math is a tool. And the instructor works toward filling each student's "toolbox" with as many tools as possible. So many things in life require mathematical abilities, and we have seen students who are academically crippled due to the lack of a foundational and working abilty in the subject. This should never be the case. Never. Strong abilities in math can make all the difference as one goes forward in life and in the academic world. And strong abilities in math are well within reach of every student.
In China, it is asserted if one can do math, then he or she can do anything. Hence, math classes in that country last two hours each day. The instructor writing this blog certainly agrees with that generality: the ability to think in an orderly, logical, and mathematical fashion is essential for many of the challenges which a student will face in the future. Let's make sure each one of our young learners will be ready to thrive when facing those challenges.
Mr. Peters
8/12/2019
Math is a language. And when approached in this manner, students experience that, once the language is learned, math is far easier than they had previously imagined. This approach not only removes much of the mystery and fear out of the subject, it also helps students to see significant success is completely attainable. This realization often removes an immense weight from the shoulders of a struggling student. Few students strive in an emotional free fall towards failure. So those who are struggling in math must obtain help, but they must also do their part to learn and apply basic rules. Also necessary is continual practice over any problem / concept causing difficulties. And this practce must continue until lasting and measurable success is obtained.
It is much like the route a student takes upon missing a certain word on a spelling test. What is the solution? Do we see students in this situation stressed out and convincing themselves they will never be able to successfully render various words with accuracy? Not at all. A student will go home, write out the word (or words) missed 10-20 times, use it in a sentence 2 or 3 times, and then endeavor to use it in conversation whenever possible. Very soon, that word becomes an old friend.
The approach should be no different in mathematics. Students must identify the weakness and/or error and regularly work problems involving those troublesome concepts until strong ability and 100% comprehension become realities. It is a process, and it often takes time. But it is time well spent.
Math is a Tool
Math is a tool. And the instructor works toward filling each student's "toolbox" with as many tools as possible. So many things in life require mathematical abilities, and we have seen students who are academically crippled due to the lack of a foundational and working abilty in the subject. This should never be the case. Never. Strong abilities in math can make all the difference as one goes forward in life and in the academic world. And strong abilities in math are well within reach of every student.
In China, it is asserted if one can do math, then he or she can do anything. Hence, math classes in that country last two hours each day. The instructor writing this blog certainly agrees with that generality: the ability to think in an orderly, logical, and mathematical fashion is essential for many of the challenges which a student will face in the future. Let's make sure each one of our young learners will be ready to thrive when facing those challenges.
Mr. Peters
8/12/2019