Category: Math

From Anxiety to Enjoyment: How Play Can Change the Relationship with Math

Posted on by Chris Hogbin

Incorporating play in math education is not just a fanciful idea; it’s a transformative approach that has tangible benefits for both teachers and students. Play fosters an environment of exploration and curiosity, helping to dispel the myth that math is a dry, unapproachable subject. Through games and interactive activities, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This playful methodology aligns perfectly with fostering a growth mindset, breaking down barriers of anxiety and opening up new avenues for intellectual development. Ultimately, integrating play in math education can lead to deeper understanding, improved engagement, and a lifelong love of learning.

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25 Things to Do Instead of Timed Math Tests

Posted on by Alice Keeler

Timed math tests have long been a staple in classrooms, but research indicates they can cause anxiety, limit understanding, and lead to negative attitudes toward math. As educators, it’s crucial to consider alternative strategies that foster a deeper understanding, long-term retention, and overall success in math. Some effective alternatives to timed math tests include incorporating visual representations like number lines or arrays, engaging students in real-world problem-solving activities, using math games and activities for practice, teaching mental strategies and grouping techniques, and encouraging cooperative learning through peer collaboration. By embracing these research-backed approaches, we can create a more engaging, supportive, and effective learning environment that promotes positive attitudes and long-term success in math for our students.

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Visualize Adding Fractions

Posted on by Alice Keeler

Students have long struggled with fractions. Continuing the traditional way of teaching fractions knowing that they have not worked is possibly the definition of insanity. Students need to visualize and explore concepts to gain number sense in order to increase their confidence and understanding of fractions. Have students visualize adding fractions until they are able to discover the pattern rather than telling them the rules for common denominators. Use Mathigon Polypad to help students with the visualization.

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