LOVE THE MOST HATED SUBJECT
CYNTHIA D. MANALOTO
Math is considered the hardest subject because it requires memorizing formulas and solving problems. According to research, the three least liked subjects are Math (41.1%), Araling Panlipunan (11.7%), and Filipino (9.7%) Numerophobia or mathematics anxiety is a disorder manifesting fear of dealing with numbers. Sometimes, it refers to fear of particular numbers. It takes a lot of patience and persistence to be able to deal with math as a subject. Unfortunately, for students math is not something that comes automatically. It requires the student to devote a lot of time, energy and discipline.
Math is built on sequential learning. Understanding the basics in math will build a foundation for the more complex lessons to follow. Help the child to understand the four basic fundamental operations so that he will not have a difficulty dealing with the succeeding topics. Parents should help to instill in the minds of children the importance of math in their lives. Learning is too significant to be left solely to the school.
The following ways can be used to make the child learn to love math:
1.Conduct Math trail – it is a walk where students discover and solve mathematical problems on real objects. It is an outdoor education which offers real life experience to enjoy.
2.Use of songs – music can be connected to math in many different ways. Lyrics, melodies, and movements can enhance learning.
3.Discipline – pupils must be physically and mentally present. Teachers should be aware of their pupils and should let them pay attention to the lesson.
4.Shortcuts – if you are an efficient problem solver, you are likely to use shortcuts that you have learned. Some shortcuts being used is the lattice method and the use of formulas.
5.Technology – by using computers, pupils will be able to graph the function and discover concepts easily by answering guide questions.
6.Group work – children working with their classmates in a group enables them to share ideas about a certain topic. This is a clear manifestation that “two heads are better than one” in solving problems.
Being a teacher is a challenging but rewarding work. To be able to make your pupils like the most hated subject is already a challenge, but once you’ve done it, you will touch so many lives.
-oOoThe author is Teacher III at Dau Elementary School