April was Maths Awareness Month, and between then and now, much as happened even as students continue to dread the subject. And to demystify the subject, we have compiled practical guides that students can follow to ensure they have a more avid interest in Mathematics, and are mighty successful at it too.
Trust me, it is not as intractable as you think it is; and dispelling such negative thoughts is the first step towards owning your Maths power!
1. Dispel All Negative Feelings You Have Toward Maths
It isn’t uncommon for most students to imply or say outright that they do not like Maths or can never understand Maths. This is just not true! And sticking with this negative rhetoric causes more harm than anything, says Paul Kelley, a veteran Mathematics teacher with 29 years experience under his belt.
While this does not mean that one should lie to himself about how they feel, he proposes instead that such ones should approach the subject the same way a doctor approaches a terrible diagnosis; you see the reality and find ways to make it better, not do further harm.
Instead of negative self-talk, why not explore the real-life applications of Maths and learn in the process. To make things interesting, you could even work together with friends on the project.
2. Have a Discussion With Others About What’s Being Taught in Class
Once you can get over the negative talk, you will feel more confident about what’s going on in class. It wouldn’t hurt to have meaningful conversations with your friends, classmates, tutor, parents or teachers about what’s going on in Maths class. Doing this has a way of helping you work over the grey areas you do not understand very well, and in a relaxed, less demanding pace than when you are learning the concept newly.
And your parents do not have to be experts in Maths for you to have these conversations with them, just being ready to listen and being enthusiastic will go a long way in helping you unburden yourself.
3. Don’t be Too Quick To Hire a Tutor If You Are Struggling
Often times, when it’s not working, most people think the next logical step is extra lessons or a private tutor. Sure, there’s the time and condition for that, but keep in mind that Mathematics generally involves some level of productive struggle and the making of mistakes.
In fact, if there is any subject where this is pardonable, it is Mathematics, because it helps you have robust interaction with the subject, and helps you personalise the concept and see how not to solve a problem.
Developing problem-solving strategies and positive self-talk – the type of internal dialogue that a student needs to persevere and become a patient problem solver – are the types of things that you, your parents and teachers should help you with, by encouraging you to make mistakes and take risks.
And should there still be a need for a tutor, you would have the confidence and self-assurance that you gave it everything you had, and that perhaps, a little extra help may be all you need to succeed and shine in Mathematics. Nothing says confidence and awareness better than this, and you will most invariably reach your goal of being proficient in Maths because of the mindset you cultivated during this process.
