Math Teacher Tips - How to Get Students to Like and Succeed in Math

Of all the subjects taught in school, the subject of mathematics invariably ranks at the top of the list as one of the hardest subjects for students. They struggle to understand it, they don't enjoy it, and consequentially, they don't achieve highly in it. However, to a young student who is also learning about science or language or arts, the subject of numbers does not have to be any harder than the others. It contains new concepts that are no more foreign to the developing mind than any of the other subjects. But why do students always point to math as their least favorite subject in school? A natural aptitude for other fields is always a possibility for some individuals, yet for most it is probably a result of teaching styles in the classroom failing to properly engage the student, combined with limited support beyond the classroom, adding up to an overwhelming lack of interest in the subject altogether that compounds over the years. Before placing blame on any person or system for the failure of a student to succeed with math, it must first be considered that they just may not have a natural aptitude for it. For some, even having a focused and enriched educational environment will not make them a math scholar, as they just may be better suited for something else. In this case, support and encouragement must be provided to help them overcome their difficulties. Ideally, teaching styles should be customized and extracurricular assistance provided to keep the student engaged and motivated to persevere. A large part of any attainable success is keeping the student interested and wanting to succeed. Of course, on that note, proper encouragement should also be given to help them pursue their more natural aptitudes in other subjects. Forcing a student to focus solely on math instead of allowing time for more favorable subjects won't necessarily help their grades, but rather breed resentment and have them dislike it (and the educator/parent) even more. On the other hand, for most students, the dislike for math does not arise from within the student, but is a product of poor teaching. Far too often, math concepts are presented as strings of numbers in boring, old textbooks that struggle to engage the student, let alone explain the concepts in understandable terms. In addition, if this is how the basic math concepts are presented, the student will struggle much more when trying to learn advanced concepts; they must first build a solid foundation of basics before adding complexity. Educators would do better to explain the concepts with real-life examples rather than relying on an outdated textbook. A lively and thought-provoking discussion about what is being taught will engage the student in the material. Instead of relying on pre-made worksheets and a curriculum passed down through the years, creativity in teaching methods will be fresh and welcomed by students. Connect the subject to things that students already have an interest in and can understand, such as sports, fashion, or other popular interests/hobbies. Demonstrate the importance of these concepts to their lives and they will grasp the usefulness of them. If a student enjoys what they are learning, they are more likely to understand the concepts and be able to apply them. In addition, teaching need not end when the student leaves the classroom; a lack of support outside of the school can leave a questioning student unsure of how to find answers, resulting in frustration. Having a home environment that is encouraging and patient will be beneficial to the student. Parents should go over troubling areas with their children, trying to explain any problems in terms that are understandable. Study groups with friends are a great way of stimulating discussion on difficult concepts, and the varying point of views will often lead to a greater understanding of the topic. Many websites on the Internet can explain concepts in a different way, which may be all that is needed. Tutorial centers are also a very good resource. A support network that goes beyond the classroom will greatly help the student to understand the concepts, and in turn, be able to enjoy them. Math doesn't need to be the most feared and hated of school subjects. When provided with proper support, an engaging curriculum, and access to resources, those who would otherwise say that they don't like math would hopefully achieve the level of understanding they need to succeed in it.