How to Teach Math

Many people think that math is difficult to understand. Math isn’t really difficult; it’s the language of math that is difficult. For a long time, math has been taught using abstract language to explain a concrete thing. Being visual, children learn math better when manipulatives are used. Manipulatives are objects that represent different numbers, like a small square as a unit and a long narrow rectangle as a 10. When math is taught using manipulatives and clear concrete language, children can see and touch what is being explained to them, making it easier to understand.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Math curriculum that uses manipulatives

How to Teach Math

1. Buy a curriculum that uses manipulatives and teaches math using concrete language. There are many available; two good curriculums are Math U See, Mortensen Math. Research these curriculums to determine which fits your budget and your family.

2. Study the math lesson before presenting it to your children. Practice several of the math problems if you need. Make sure you understand the concept being taught and how to present it to your children.

3. Make the lesson fun and interesting. Let them see that studying math is fun. Don’t tell them that math is hard or that certain aspects of math are only for when they are older. You will be surprised at what a child can understand when their brain is not limited.

4. Take the lessons outside the books. Use opportunities to show how math is involved in everyday life. Use setting the table for basic counting. Use baking for fractions. Use trips for algebra.

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[crewtonramone]

on 8/16/2009 For a detailed explanation of how to use manipulatives from a Mortensen Math Master Trainer go here

http://www.crewtonramoneshouseofmath.com/