As a lover of mathematics, I loved reading this book. The book talked about the knowledge the teacher requires in Mathematics and how the children learn Mathematics. Without a good facilitator, the children can never learn maths in a systematic manner.
Problem solving is an important component in Mathematics. When the child problem solve, he starts to learn and observe the problem. This enables him to be more alert and efficient in future. There are 6 principles and standards for School Mathematics. There are Equity, Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, Assessment and Technology principles. I feel that teaching and learning are the most important principle. Different people have different method of teaching mathematical concepts and how the students perceive it; the children need alot of hands on activities to learn the correct concept. Mathematics could be experimented by using different methods to get the answers.
The book also talks about the five content standards. There are Number and Operations, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement and Data Analysis and Probability. These are the concepts the children will be learning from preschool to grade 12. It also talks about five process standards. There are Problem Solving, Reasoning and Proof, Communication, Connections and Representation. Children acquire these skills in order to master Mathematics.
After reading these chapters, the role of the teacher is very important. Teachers need to be patient and look at the process rather than looking at the out product.
Chapter 2
The chapter talks about understanding the Mathematical concepts before in putting it into practice. Children are to connect the previous material, respond with information and to predicate the outcome of the answer.
There are constructivism and sociocultural theories. These are learning theories helping children to understand the concepts. I have taught children using their prior knowledge and it really helped children to understand the concepts and it was easier for me as a teacher to track the level the child was to help them in the weak areas.
I agree that teachers are the important facilitators in the childrens’ learning as they need to provide interactions, reflective thoughts, encourage multiple approaches, childrens’ errors as learning opportunities. This is not easy as the teacher needs alot of patience and it is the teacher’s duty that the child is learning something fruitful. The teacher would be delighted when the children understood a new concept that was taught to them.
I feel that learning should be done from simple to abstract so that children understand in a systematic manner. Maths need to be taught in a fun filled way as it is going to be a lifelong learning. Ensure that children love Maths and the teachers are to give positive remarks when the child is able to do the activity.
