Mathematics is generally regarded as a subject which is fun and its as equally challenging. For some students, this “challenging” element gives excitement and joy, while for others, it causes fear and anxiety. Approaching Mathematics with enthusiasm is very important and this may not be practically possible for everyone since not all students have the innate quality to perform well in math or even be able to like it as a subject for that matter.
Source: Hodder education
Mathematics is utilised in every facet of our life, and without it, almost everything is impossible. This is probably also the reason why mathematics is an extremely important subject and is a prerequisite to the entrance of many courses in the university, to get hold of good subject combinations when moving on from secondary level 2 to 3 or when entering junior college.
So, here are some simple tips to follow in order to pick up essential math skills!
#1: SPARKING ENTHUSIASM
Some interests are innate while others are cultivated. There is nothing wrong about cultivated interests and in fact, it is important to learn how to do this in order to get past many things in our life which may seem unpleasant. Sparking an interest in Mathematics can be done through learning simple math concepts through fun activities. Here’s an example…
Game: Sugar cube tower
Source: Live the adventure letter
Things needed: Sugar cubes, pencil, paper
How to play the game?
For a rectangular prism, length x width x height = volume.
1. Using sugar cubes, build a rectangular prism of any size.
2. Count and record the dimensions of the rectangular prism and measure how many sugar cubes long, high and wide is it?
3. Move on to substitute recorded dimensions into the volume formula for a rectangular prism and record the answer.
4. Try this with different shapes and sizes to get comfortable with the topic.
Teachers can employ this method of introducing activities to make learning math more fun and this is the first step to walk the path of success in performing well for Math.
#2: A STRONG BASE
For a tree to live long, stay strong and bear sweet fruits, it has to have deep roots and strong base which will enable it to thrive. Similarly, for you to excel in mathematics, you need to set your foundations right. That way, over time, your “math tree” will bear “fruits” as well.
Technically speaking, students need to have internalised concepts completely and should have the formulas at their fingertips. This initial stage will be inevitably challenging for students because everything will be new and it is very easy to get lost in the crowd of formulas and abstract concepts. It is crucial to understand concepts thoroughly, practice beginner-level math questions to test yourself on everything you have learnt to solidify the fundamentals. This is absolutely essential to establish in order to proceed to the more advanced levels and build on what you have already learnt.
#3: MATH TUITION
Source: Additudemag
The best way to develop math skills is through personalised coaching. This is precisely why the tuition industry has boomed, rightfully so. Math home tutors will take the necessary effort to understand their students’ weaknesses and strengths, and they will further analyse to find the reason behind why their students make the mistakes they make. Singapore math tutors, be it private tutors or tuition centre teachers, are all well aware of the syllabus and its requirements, as well as the kind of challenges students, are bound to face. Beyond being the ultimate coach, your math home tutor will be a huge pillar of strength through your arduous academic journey.
Excelling in math is not the most difficult task in the world; it’s tough but it’s not impossible. The most important thing to do from the beginning is learning to like the subject and cultivate an interest in it. From there if you learn to strengthen your basics and when you get the necessary assistance, you will perform very well, in fact, beyond your expectations!