Hi everyone, welcome to Education Week 2015. TPPS have this year decided to focus on Mathematics across the school to celebrate Ed. Week which is great for me as teaching maths was always something I loved. While I loved teaching maths, I didn't particularly enjoy learning mathematics in school (particularly secondary school) and I was not very good at it (not that I am claiming to be a great mathematician now). My attitude toward maths changed when I started teaching as there was an emphasis on assisting students to understand why we need maths and how to solve problems. This is quite different to when I was at school as mathematics was more about getting the answer correct. Looking back, I learnt how to 'do mathematics' not 'understand mathematics'. This can be the outcome of teaching by utilising endless worksheets and text books.
Modelling and teaching students how to solve problems is vital as it builds a base for their learning in the future. Without context, purpose or a focus on understanding, mathematics can become an area in which students may participate with some success but may find it difficult to continually build on their level of understanding. As we all know, mathematics in mid to late secondary school can get very challenging so building a base of mathematical understanding in primary school is vital.
So this week, give some thought about maths and perhaps even explore the link below which will take you to some relevant, purposeful activities about giving context to mathematics with your young child.
Happy Education Week!
Exploring maths with your child.
Modelling and teaching students how to solve problems is vital as it builds a base for their learning in the future. Without context, purpose or a focus on understanding, mathematics can become an area in which students may participate with some success but may find it difficult to continually build on their level of understanding. As we all know, mathematics in mid to late secondary school can get very challenging so building a base of mathematical understanding in primary school is vital.
So this week, give some thought about maths and perhaps even explore the link below which will take you to some relevant, purposeful activities about giving context to mathematics with your young child.
Happy Education Week!
Exploring maths with your child.