Mathematics is a very useful subject that can be found all around us. Understanding and implementing math concepts can help us become better problem solvers, more creative thinkers, and be adaptive when faced with difficult problems in and out of the classroom. Having the ability to explain mathematical concepts to students in a way they can understand and apply to their everyday lives is a very important skill all teachers should have. By taking math out of the textbook and turning it into hands-on collaborative activities, teachers can help their students take ownership of their learning. Having a student-centered classroom will give students independence and help them to be responsible for their own learning.
As teachers, we should be differentiating and scaffolding our lessons to reach the various learning styles of our students. For example, some students may learn better using manipulatives like blocks while others may learn better by using graphic organizers. Technology, such as Desmos and Geogebra, can also help to bring mathematics alive in the classroom. These resources can help visual learners and can be used in any grade level. By providing a rich learning environment that fosters creativity and wonder, we can help our students enjoy learning mathematics.
Laying a solid positive foundation in mathematics is crucial for students to have confidence in themselves especially when they start learning advanced concepts. It is also important because so much of mathematics is builds upon previous concepts. For example, having a solid conceptual understanding of the properties and operations of addition will immensely help students in algebra when these properties are expanded upon. One way to help students be successful in mathematics is to focus on promoting the standards of mathematical practices from New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards. Practices such as making use of patterns and structures can help students break things down into smaller steps.
Without a thorough understanding of elementary mathematics, advanced mathematics will be much harder for the student. Providing students with constructive feedback, positive reinforcement, and demonstrating examples using a variety of methods will help students to see the flexibility in how we can approach mathematics. As a future childhood educator, I am passionate about creating a space where life skills like determination and perseverance are fostered, and students can ask questions, but more importantly, find their own answers.
As teachers, we should be differentiating and scaffolding our lessons to reach the various learning styles of our students. For example, some students may learn better using manipulatives like blocks while others may learn better by using graphic organizers. Technology, such as Desmos and Geogebra, can also help to bring mathematics alive in the classroom. These resources can help visual learners and can be used in any grade level. By providing a rich learning environment that fosters creativity and wonder, we can help our students enjoy learning mathematics.
Laying a solid positive foundation in mathematics is crucial for students to have confidence in themselves especially when they start learning advanced concepts. It is also important because so much of mathematics is builds upon previous concepts. For example, having a solid conceptual understanding of the properties and operations of addition will immensely help students in algebra when these properties are expanded upon. One way to help students be successful in mathematics is to focus on promoting the standards of mathematical practices from New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards. Practices such as making use of patterns and structures can help students break things down into smaller steps.
Without a thorough understanding of elementary mathematics, advanced mathematics will be much harder for the student. Providing students with constructive feedback, positive reinforcement, and demonstrating examples using a variety of methods will help students to see the flexibility in how we can approach mathematics. As a future childhood educator, I am passionate about creating a space where life skills like determination and perseverance are fostered, and students can ask questions, but more importantly, find their own answers.