School systems around the world all follow one principle. They start teaching by the basics. We learn our ABCs before we form our words in writing. We write words before we can form sentences and then move on to more advanced teachings and grammars. Everything comes down to the foundation
Likewise with Maths, it is important for us to understand our numbers before we can add, subtract and multiply. However, many students forget the principles of basics and try to tackle complex problems without a strong foundation. If we try to tackle division without fully mastering multiplications, we struggle as division and multiplications go hand in hand.
There are many more examples like this. However, this is not understood by many students. They feel frustrated as it seems as though they are to blame when they cannot solve a Maths problem. However, it isn’t the case. There could be two underlying problems that is restricting them from accomplishing their goal. One is their basics and the other is practice.
It isn’t enough to just understand a concept that a teacher has just taught. The students need to test these methods. The way to master mathematics is different to the way you master a theory based subject like History. Memory alone is not enough. Mathematics always requires practice. It is almost like learning to play a new game.You wouldn’t know how to master it until you start playing it.
For example, the laws of indices has a new set of rules in comparison to addition and subtraction. These rules can be understood in class when a teacher explains it. However, due to the rules being different, it is like jumping into a new world so it doesn’t come naturally. Therefore it requires practice to master these new concepts. These concepts of indices lead to many advanced mathematical problems solved in physics and other math based subjects. Hence, it acts as your basics for the next level.
These key points show just how important getting to basics and practising is. Although these things take time and patience, if students are willing to be patient with themselves, these two key pointers would definitely help them on the long run.
by Swechha G, Private tutor London
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