LISt the strategies you would use so that the students will not feel bored and depressED.
In teaching and learning mathematics there are many issues that teachers must consider.
1) Teaching methods
2) Resources and teaching aids
3) The language of the learner
4) Multiple intelligences of pupils
Students
Ÿ Young children learn mathematics in different ways and they are not only dependent on the types of learning that requires them to just "sit and listen" to teacher-talk.
Ÿ Students can learn by :-
¬ practicing skills on their own
¬ conducting discussion between them
¬ playing games
¬ doing puzzles
¬ doing practical
¬ problem-solving
¬ finding things by themselves
Ÿ In the classroom context, students need the opportunities to use different kinds of learning as it :-
ð provides motivation
ð improves their learning skills
ð provides variety
ð enabled them to learn things more quickly
Teaching methods
1. Presentation and explanation by the teacher
Ÿ This is a formal teaching method that allows the teacher to present and explain mathematics to the whole class. It can be difficult because you have to ensure that all students understand. This can be a very effective way of :
Ä teaching a new topic to a large number of students
Ä trying to make everyone understand certain stages of the topic
Ä summarizing what has been learnt
2. Drill and practice
Ÿ It is essential that students have the opportunity to practice what they have learnt as well as to develop their understanding by applying new ideas and skills towards the new learning materials.
3. Games
Ÿ Games can help to create an enjoyable, exciting and interesting lesson. Games provide opportunities for the students to take part in learning actively. Moreover, it also allows students to experience success and satisfaction, which later build their confidence and enthusiasm.
Ÿ The benefits of games :
" Help students to understand mathematical concepts
" Enable students to develop mathematical skills
" help students to know mathematical facts
" help students to learn the language and vocabulary of Mathematics
" help students to develop ability in mental mathematics
Ÿ For instance,
i. Go on a Geometry Scavenger Hunt
ii. Sandbox Math Sticks
(Examples of games that can be found in the internet)
4. Practical work (always involve resources)
Ÿ Practical work refers to three things :
a. Using materials and resources to make things which involve using mathematical skills of measuring and estimating as well as the knowledge of making spatial relationships.
b. Marking a solid model of mathematical concept or relationship.
c. Using mathematics in a practical, real-life situation for instance in markets, planning trips and organising event.
Ÿ Benefits of using resources:
a. actively involves students
b. motivates students
c. makes ideas concrete
d. gives hands-on experience
e. makes group work easier
f. gives opportunities for language development
Ÿ According to Huetinck and Munshin (2004) some students are kinaesthetic learners, thus touching objects may enhance their learning needs. An object that can address the concepts in mathematics through visual and kinaesthetic senses is being referred as manipulative.
5. Problems and puzzles
Ÿ This kind of method encourages students to learn mathematics through solving problems and puzzles which have definite answers. The key point of this method is it allows students to work out the solution by themselves.
Ÿ Puzzles develop students’ thinking skills, where problem solving helps to develop the skills of selecting the appropriate method and apply it to the given problem.
6. Investigating mathematics
Ÿ This can be done by setting students with challenge which leads them to discover and practice by themselves. The teacher should find suitable challenges for the students and the challenges should also be matched to the students’ ability.
Ÿ The investigations should encourage students to make their own decisions on :
a. where to start
b. how to deal with the challenge
c. what mathematics they need to use
d. how they can communicate this mathematics
e. how to describe what they have discovered
Portman, J and Richardson, J (1997)
7. Creating a new and fun environment of learning
Ÿ It would be nice if the teacher would bring along the pupils to a mathematic convention or event. This would give them more exposure. Not only that, the children will learn that mathematic is actually fun and very useful in their lives.
8. Active learning
Ÿ Meyers and Jones (1993) define active learning as learning environments that allow “students to talk and listen, read, write, and reflect as they approach course content through problem-solving exercises, informal small groups, simulations, case studies, role playing, and other activities -- all of which require students to apply what they have learnt ”.
Ÿ Many studies show that learning is enhanced when students become actively involved in the learning process. Instructional strategies that engage students in the learning process stimulate critical thinking and a greater awareness of other perspectives
9. Cooperative learning
Ÿ Cooperative Learning is a systematic pedagogical strategy that encourages small groups of students to work together for the achievement of a common goal. The term 'Collaborative Learning' is often used as a synonym for cooperative learning when, in fact, it is a separate strategy that encompasses a broader range of group interactions such as developing learning communities, stimulating student/faculty discussions, and encouraging electronic exchanges (Bruffee, 1993).
Ÿ When integrating cooperative or collaborative learning strategies into a course, careful planning and preparation are essential. Understanding how to form groups, ensure positive interdependence, maintain individual accountability, resolve group conflict, develop appropriate assignments and grading criteria, and manage active learning environments are critical to the achievement of a successful cooperative learning experience.
10. Integrating Technology (use of ICT) in the lesson.
CONCLUSION
In short, by taking into account all of these strategies before starting a lesson, teachers will therefore be able to make students enjoy the lesson and not feel bored and depressed.
Compiled by: Dk Muhyidatul, Nur Farahana, Nur Ridzwannah, Mufidah, Ak Alif
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