Teaching Math to Students, Research Paper Example

What is the best method for the students to learn math?

The best way for the students to learn math is through the use of a teaching technique that engages the children in creative thinking as opposed to forcing students cram mathematical formulas. While most of the mathematics curricula forces students to cram a list of formulas, children have been found to be more responsive to a system that allows them investigate and derive these formulas (Green, 2014).

This approach was propagated by Japanese Math teacher Akihiko Takahashi. He found that students developed a better grasp of mathematical concepts by engaging them in activities that require the practical application of math as opposed to memorizing formulas (Green, 2014).

What are some other ideas to make the student good at math?

Parents also have a considerably huge role to play in their child’s education. Children reflect attitudes and ideas fostered by their parents. When parents fail to engage children in activities that require the application of math skill, the child fails to find interest or recognize the value of these concepts (Schuck & Pereira, 2011). Therefore, parents should engage children in practical activities that require the application of mathematical concepts.

According to research, children whose parents engage them in mathematical activities at a young age tend to have an easier time in math throughout their education. This is one of the foolproof training plans that parents should adopt.

Which idea is the most effective one?

Both of the techniques mentioned above have their own unique merits. Using the first technique allows for students to develop critical thinking skills. By allowing students to adventure into the different concepts of math, such as deriving the formula of the area of a square, they develop critical thinking skills essential for building an understanding of the subject.

On the other hand, the second approach can be implemented much earlier in a student’s life. This technique is psychological and it has been fashioned so as to develop a passion for mathematics at a young age. Both techniques are effective and both can be implemented at the same time to realize maximum results from a student.

 How can teachers make students love math?

Teachers can foster a unique sense of importance towards the math subject. Teachers can help students by tracking the progress of every individual student and providing special attention in private sessions with each individual student. Some students respond to different techniques. As such, private sessions may be a good tool in fostering a passion for the subject.

How can the students know if they are answering the questions correctly or not?

Students always attempt to achieve the best they can in any given test. However, some students rarely make the effort and do not know when they answer questions correctly or not. These students need indication from their instructors when the answer questions correctly. To further boost their morale, instructors can encourage them to make another attempt when they fail to answer a question correctly.

How do the teachers know if the students understand the lesson?

Teachers can engage students in critical thinking activities that test each student’s level of understanding of the mathematical concepts taught in class. These activities do not require an examination setting. The leave at which a student can apply these concepts is a clear indication of the mastery of the given concept.

References

Bill, H. (2012). Teaching Struggling Students in Math. New York: R&L Education.

Green, E. (2014, July 23). Why Do Americans Stink at Math? The New York Times. Retrieved February 5, 2015, from http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/27/magazine/why-do-americans-stink-at-math.html?_r=0

Hanion, B. (2012). Teaching struggling students in math : too many grades of D or F? Lanham: Rowan & Littlefield Education.

Schuck, S., & Pereira, P. (2011). What counts in teaching mathematics : adding value to self and content. New York: Springer.