Mastering Maths

 

MATHEMATICS should be one of the most useful subjects children learn in school –

yet thousands leave school each year unable to use simple mathematical methods.

Worse, they are traumatised by their experiences in maths classes.

 

This results in many adults being left vulnerable, not only to financial ruin, but in any

situation involving mathematical thinking or reasoning.

It should be the right of all children to be given a basic but sound mathematical

knowledge and understanding. Yet thousands of students actually fear or hate maths.

Children also suffer because they come to believe that maths achievement equals

intelligence, and to fail at maths is a sign of being stupid. This idea serves to erode

children's confidence in their ability to think, and it is the reason so many children

feel traumatised when they don't do well in maths.

 

There is a pervasive view in the UK that only some children can do well in maths;

this is wrong and damaging.  It is really important that children know that everyone

can be good at maths and everyone can reach high levels.

There are many ways in which parents can help their children, particularly through

encouragement and support. 

 

Negative comments to the youngster do not help;  similarly avoiding saying, "I was

terrible at maths at school," as research has found that when mothers say this to their daughters, their expectations fall." 

 

Mathematical success can be helped by puzzles and games worked on at home within

the family such as sudoku (there are many children's versions around), snakes and

ladders (for early number work), Rubik's cubes, jigsaws, draughts, chess, dominoes,

Connect 4 and any logic puzzles.

 

The above is part of a new section being prepared for our web-site, highlighting subjects tutored by STEP AHEAD.