Turn numbers in your favour

Arpita Acharya

Mathematics is the queen of all sciences. This reflects the significance, scope and importance of mathematics in the realm of sciences. But unfortunately, the subject is thought of as the most difficult one by students. What is it about mathematics that makes students so nervous about it? Researches prove that students lose interest in math during the transition from elementary school to high school, and many don’t regain interest, until they are in college.

The perception among Indian students about this subject being difficult is surprising as ours is a land of great mathematicians like Ramanujan and Aryabhatta. The origin and accomplishments of these great men should be a source of inspiration to both students and teachers alike. Yet, as the truth is otherwise, the need is to make concerted efforts to identify the reason as to why students are averse to maths. Efforts should be made to inculcate students’ interest in the subject.

Make maths a part of life

A way to ensure that students like math is to show them how it is used in their lives. Many children do not understand that the social media that they use every day (Twitter, Instagram, and texting) is the brainchild of some engineer. When you help students make this connection, it can, in turn, motivate them, and they will be able to appreciate how mathematics can translate into a career.

Here are some tricks to make students develop a liking for maths 

Build confidence: Low confidence makes students anxious towards mathematics. Previous negative experiences with the subject can lead to a defeatist attitude. Provide students with regular confidence-building exercises that might look challenging, but are easier to solve. This boost in confidence and self-efficacy can decrease anxiety and fear. Students will feel more capable and motivated.

As a part of life: Mathematics is not a stagnant field of textbook problems; rather, it is a dynamic way of constructing meaning about the world around us. It helps us understand the real world every day. A great teacher can take students on a journey of learning and respond to their doubts. She can turn math into an interactive subject.

Practice to score better: Practice can make everything possible, so why not maths? As a teacher or parent, you can make a student know the importance of regular practice. With time, errors and mistakes will come down. Practising maths make students perfect excel in other fields too, as the confidence will increase.  It will also help them choose a good career. Always remember, dedication towards work with regular practice can help students achieve their goals.

Present a challenge: When students are challenged intellectually, they react with enthusiasm. Teachers involved must take care while selecting the challenge. They must also ensure that it does not detract students. The problem must be within the reach of the students’ abilities. The challenge must lead to better problem solving in the future.

Reward students: This is a step which should be followed after presenting a challenge to the students. Teachers must reward students who perform well in the given challenge. Rewards can motivate students to love maths, it also increases their confidence level. This will also boost students’ interest in the subject and will also raise their participation in everyday-classroom tasks.

— The writer is vice-principal, Blue Bells Public School, Gurugram.