Chapter 1

Mathematics is one of the core subject taught in schools. The emphasis and pressure in teaching and

learning Maths falls on both teacher and student alike.

 

The Principles and Standard for School Maths  (NCTM) created six principles to guide teachers as they work towards continual improvement of educating Maths in class and to improve the educational system. The NCTM recognises the importance of including Pre K into the framework. This confirm the importance and value of Maths instructions for young children.

 

Out of the five content standard stated in Chapter 1, numbers and operations, Geometry and Measurement are said to be the most important for creating a strong foundation in Maths for the Pre K. It helps nurture Mathematical thinking skills.

 

We as teachers have to upgrade our knowledge of Mathematics content to better help the children. As far as I know understanding or 'learning' Maths is all about practice ,practice and more practice! To become a efficient teacher in this subject requires one to be persistent in way we demonstrate to student, have positive attitude, a readiness to change and reflect on our teaching and learning as an on going process.

 

To help students achieve their learning goals in Maths we need to consider two important factors that are necessary, that would be to provide an environment that is inviting, create challenges, attract children interest, provide opportunity to them to question their thinking and knowledge of the subject matter. To further enhance learning, integrating technology (IT) plays a vital role in this modern age of learning.

 

My experience in learning Maths in school was unpleasant. My Maths teacher was not supportive. She always chided me for not getting my answers right. She would 'drill me to the ground' with Maths homework, because I was poor in this subject. It was a frustrating experience. I have missed out so much. I believe the teacher and the learning environment play a crucial role in cultivating the interest in  learning Maths. And the love for learning Maths should start from young. I was not that fortunate, however I will like to ensure that the children under my charge will learn to love Maths before entering Primary school.

This video shows exactly how confused I was when learning Maths in school!.. Its so funny that I needed to share with you.

 

 

 

Chapter 2

 

Doing Mathematics takes time and effort. Basic facts such as computation of whole number, fraction, decimals are necessary for children to understand in able to do Maths. The fact remains that children should not be taught to memorize the facts and procedures of Maths. Children should be given opportunity to explore and learn before practicing. Teachers need to allow children to learn by doing, interacting and explaining. Children need to be taught to make decision of their own and that the teacher should scaffold to help children develop higher thinking.

 

Using terms such as compare, explain, develop etc.in the classroom  helps them to become active thinkers about the mathematical ideas that are involved.

 

Providing an appropriate  environment to learn Maths is necessary to help children concentrate, listen, share ideas and connect to Maths concepts and to the real world.

 

Children learning Maths helps them to fit new concepts to their prior knowledge and the teachers role is to ask probing questions that will keep children engaged until they derive with an answer.

Generally, children will definitely benefit from learning Maths as it develops their knowledge on various concept. With regular practice their ability to recall ways of solving problems or finding solution is not overwhelming for them. They are able to 'workout' the problem to find solution.

Thus with constant practice , children will eventually develop a positive attitude and confidence in understanding and learning Maths.