Math Part 2

Is there more than one way to solve a math problem? Retrieved from  via GIPHY We often think of math as being straightforward, black and white , with one correct answer and one way to get there. This week I have really explored the multitude of methods for solving math problems, and how so many people use a variety of techniques. In class, we practiced reading through some word problems and figuring out our own ways to solve them. Aside from seeing the benefits of being able to solve them in our own way, I was surprised to see the importance of sharing our methods with others. Since we all process things differently in our minds, we also think about solving problems differently. What struck me the most was that I would find a way to work through the questions in ways that seemed quick and simple, but after hearing others share their techniques, I discovered other ways that would have been much easier for me. This really taught me to value the act of collaborating with my p...

When I think about math goals, the first thing that comes to mind is getting all the right answers and doing it quickly. I'm sure a lot of you think the same way too... but that's not necessarily a good thing. I'm going to talk about why it's important to change our expectations when it comes to doing math. Making Mistakes Mistakes are generally feared.. by everyone.. all the time. But why should we be so afraid of failure? Of course we gain a sense of accomplishment and possibly recognition for doing things correctly. But, what if I told you that you could become smarter and even solve more math problems correctly by first making loads of mistakes? Sounds a little far fetched, but let me explain. Retrieved from  https://www.theodysseyonline.com /five-reasons-to-love-your-mistakes When you make a mistake while trying to solve a math problem, for instance, one of two things may happen: 1) You consider yourself a failure and decide to give up  2) You lea...

Problem Solving As students, if we pay attention during math class we usually learn one method for solving equations/questions and practice using this method to complete our work. So often it is expected by the teacher to use said method and that other techniques are frowned upon. This was my experience in math class growing up, but I don't necessarily believe that it's the best way to teach math to an entire class of students. For a lot of math, there are  multiple ways of solving the same problem. So the question is, should teachers allow students to explore different methods for completing math homework? My answer to that is, why not!  Everyone's brain functions differently, so it makes sense to use different ways of displaying the answers. It can be extremely helpful to students if they are given the opportunity to use drawings, manipulatives, or even work in groups to solve math problems. The key point I'm trying to make is that it's far better for students...

Another school year has begun and yet again, I find myself searching for new ways to make math lessons engaging and interactive for students. Okay I know what you're thinking, math and fun don't usually appear in the same sentence. But why not? Why can't teachers use more interesting methods for teaching math? I've learned a lot about the myths and stereotypes associated with math and would like to clear the air a little. "I'm just not a math person" Retrieved from  https://kscitech.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/math_education.jpg We've all been there! Cracked open that big textbook, sat at our desks, and painfully worked to complete page after page of math questions. This mind-numbing routine would continue day after day and year after year for me. It's not that I didn't like math... it was just boring. Basically everyone I've ever spoken to has shared the same experience in school. Then comes the statement we hear far too often, ...