Understanding the Importance of the “Why” in Math Education
Lori emphasizes the significance of understanding the “why” behind mathematical concepts. She recalls her own experience in high school, where her mother, also a math teacher, explained the reasoning behind various math problems. This approach not only helped Lori grasp the material but also sparked a lifelong passion for math. Parents can encourage their children to ask “why” questions and seek explanations, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of math.
The Power of ‘Why’: Enhancing Math Learning Through Curiosity
Navigating the world of mathematics can be a challenging yet rewarding journey for students and their parents. Lori Martin, a seasoned educator with nearly three decades of teaching experience, shares valuable insights on fostering a positive and engaging math learning environment. From her own experiences and those of her students, Lori offers practical advice that can help parents support their children in developing a strong foundation in math.
The Role of Study Groups and Peer Learning
One of the positive outcomes of Lori’s high school experience was the formation of study groups. When faced with a teacher who discouraged questions, Lori turned to her peers and her mother for support. This collaborative learning environment not only helped her overcome challenges but also built a sense of community and shared learning. Parents can facilitate similar study groups at home or within their community, encouraging their children to learn from and support each other.
Author Quote
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Math is a roller coaster like there’s highs and lows and explaining that to my kids like okay we’re on a high right now you’ve got this and they’re like but we know what’s coming tomorrow but it’s okay because you know it’s going to go back up like right and just the joy of learning.
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The Roller Coaster of Math Learning: Embracing the Highs and Lows
Lori likens the math learning experience to a roller coaster, with its inevitable highs and lows. She encourages students to embrace this journey, understanding that setbacks are part of the learning process. Parents can help their children by reinforcing the idea that it’s okay to struggle and that perseverance will lead to greater understanding and success. Celebrating the highs and supporting through the lows can make a significant difference in a child’s math journey.
Key Takeaways:
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Encourage a Growth Mindset: It's important for parents to foster a growth mindset in their children, emphasizing that math is a journey with highs and lows, much like a roller coaster. Lori Martin highlights the importance of convincing students that they can figure out math problems with effort and persistence. Parents can support this by celebrating effort and progress, not just results, and by encouraging their children to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
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Promote Collaborative Learning: Lori Martin's classroom experience shows the value of collaborative learning, where students work together and learn from each other. Parents can facilitate this at home by encouraging their children to form study groups or work with peers on math problems. This not only helps in understanding concepts better but also builds confidence as students see that others may struggle with the same issues.
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Emphasize the 'Why' Behind Math: Understanding the underlying reasons and applications of math concepts can significantly enhance a student's engagement and comprehension. Lori mentions how her mother explained the 'why' behind math, which helped her connect with the subject. Parents can help by asking their children to explain the reasoning behind their math work, encouraging them to explore the practical applications of what they're learning, and making math relevant to real-life situations.
Embracing the Ups and Downs of Learning Math: The Importance of Perseverance and Support
Lori highlights the critical role of Number Sense in math education. She explains that a strong foundation in number sense allows students to better understand and manipulate numbers, which is essential for higher-level math. Parents can support their children by engaging them in activities that build number sense, such as counting games, mental math exercises, and real-world applications of numbers. Encouraging a strong number sense early on can pave the way for future success in math.
Author Quote
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Allow your students space to think and then be ready for them to try to go back to their old ways and don’t be disappointed just redirect them.
”Building a Strong Foundation in Mathematics Through Early Engagement with Numbers
Logical Reasoning is another key component of math education that Lori emphasizes. She believes that teaching students to think logically and critically about math problems helps them develop problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom. Parents can help by encouraging their children to explain their thought processes and to approach problems from different angles. Engaging in puzzles, strategy games, and logical reasoning exercises can further enhance these skills.
If your child is struggling in school, consider the Brain Bloom System, which can help them build a strong foundation in math and foster a love for learning. Learn more about Brain Bloom System here.
