I always thought that
mathematics was a dry subject. After Reading 1 and 2, I come to understand that
teaching mathematics can be interesting after all. I also agree that in order
to teach mathematics to children, we must have an interest in Maths .There are
a lot of good ideas in the readings which are very interesting. Mathematics as explained in reading 2 shows
that we should really understand the strategies involved in doing Mathematics
rather than just knowing the formulas. Children must know how to use these
formulas to solve other similar problems.
Children should be
given opportunities for “higher-level” thinking instead of just rote learning.
Classroom environment plays an important part in enhancing mathematical
learning. I would like to set up interesting maths corners in my preschool for children’s
to explore and learn mathematics. Children should be given opportunities to
converse with their peers so that they could exchange ideas, discuss and come
up with a solution to their mathematics problems. The use of technology has
also helped children to solve mathematics problems effectively. Calculators is
been widely used in schools nowadays.
Reading 2 talked about
Jean Piaget’s ‘constructivism’ and Vygotsky’s ‘zone of proximal development’
where children build on their prior knowledge. Children should be given
opportunities to use their prior knowledge and inco-operate it in whatever they are doing
now.
Usually when children
make mistakes, we immediately correct them by teaching the correct way. We do
not actually allow them to reflect on and correct their mistakes. From these readings,
I understand that children should be given time to reflect on their mistakes
and try to solve the problems by themselves.
In conclusion, every
child thinks differently and their prior
knowledge is also based on their cultural background. We should give children
ample time to explore and work on their mathematics problems based on their
prior knowledge.
