Teaching methods in mathematics
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15 Strategies on how to teach Math!
Table of Contents
January 13, 2021
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Introduction
Mathematics is a subject that is quite different from others, both in terms of difficulty and in terms of usage. Every parent desires that their child succeeds in mathematics. But, teaching a child the concepts of mathematics is difficult. This is the reason why most of the parents are confused regarding how to teach maths in an interesting way to their children.
The ultimate goal of mathematics is understanding the material presented, applying the skills, and recalling the concepts in the future. There is a list of concepts revolving around multiple formulas that help to solve different problem sets and make different decisions. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the material rather than memorizing the procedures of mathematics.
Mathematics is a subject that requires constant practice and revision. If this is not done, students tend to forget the concepts. Some students find it interesting while others find it difficult. This is because of the strategies applied by the teacher regarding how to teach maths. As it is such a different subject, the teachers have to apply a whole different set of strategies while teaching mathematics.
In this arti
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Methods of instruction mathematics
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Approaches to teaching maths
Traditionally, maths has been taught using a ‘transmission’ model, where a teacher, in a position of authority and expertise, relays information from the board to a passive class. The learners listen then repeat exercises on their own without collaboration.
Research has found that learning which is not passive but ‘active’ is most effective for teaching maths. Active learning can be used in any context, including vocational contexts, with learners working at any level. It encourages learners to be actively engaged in talking and collaborating to solve problems. Questions come from not only the teacher but the learners themselves, and they tend to be higher-order, seeking deep understanding through exploration and broad application. Question start with words such as: “Is it always the case that …?” and “Can you suggest a time when this would not be the case …?”
Active learning tasks
Active learning does not necessarily require learners to be physically active. www.curriculumonline.ie suggests a range of activities that will enable students to learn actively. These include:
- “Hands-on” activities with concrete materials
- Project work
- Problem solving
- Quizzes and games
- Use of information and communication technol