Teaching Math Effectively

Math is the school subject most students have difficulty on, so much so that the term “math anxiety” had been coined to describe how many students feel about it. Much research had been done to find the best ways to teach math. From these researches, it was discovered that letting the students understand the concept behind each mathematical procedure is needed for mastery.

Students may learn how to perform mathematical procedures mechanically, but without understanding the concept, it will be easy for them to forget the methods they employed. Several math teaching experts believe the concept and the procedure should be taught simultaneously. Mastering the procedure helps in understanding the concept behind it, while getting a good grasp of the concept helps in remembering how the procedure is performed.

This makes constant math exercises and repeated lessons on various concepts very important. In many cases, help from outside the classroom, such as in tutoring centers, are beneficial in helping the student understand and master both concept and procedure.

Math builds on itself. Each new concept that you learn is composed of different parts and connections that you'll eventually need to learn about. If a student does not understand the concept at a certain level, they would have a difficult time coping with the next higher level. Therefore, addressing math difficulties early through supplementary education or tutoring services may be necessary.