Most people know kids need manipulatives to learn math concepts. Experience with manipulatives helps with math concepts. At Mathnasium of Littleton we know teenagers benefit from concrete experience with math concepts, too. The more complex the mathematical concept the student is learning, the harder it is to show the concept concretely. In fact, helping high school students to think abstractly is a huge challenge for math teachers everywhere. Abstract thinking skills are built on concrete thinking skills so we keep looking for new ways to show complex math on a concrete level.
Traditional Math Instruction
Traditionally math instruction has emphasized rote memorization and algorithms.The result is many kids haven’t had enough time for conceptual understanding of the skills they learn. By the time kids hit middle school or high school their shaky foundation results in a lack of confidence, and even anxiety and behavior problems. Kids with dyscalculia need more time than most at the concrete level before moving on to abstract thinking.
What is the Solution?
Even for some teenagers, the transition from concrete materials to abstract concepts must be gradual and systematic. At Mathnasium of Littleton, we don’t rush the process of abstract thinking. We take our time and work at the pace best suited for each child. We teach number sense which is founded on the concepts of counting, wholes and parts and proportional thinking and serves as a base for math concepts all the way through Trigonometry and Calculus. We build upon this foundation sequentially as the student is ready and spiral back to these concepts at each level of mastery as needed. This methodical approach to conceptual understanding has long term benefits. At Mathnasium of Littleton, we are also careful to use precise words to explain math.
Here are two videos we like that concretely show advanced math topics.
Quadratic Equation
Pythagorean Thereom
Give us a call today at 303-979-9077 and let us help your child succeed in math!
Articles referenced in this post.
Manipulatives Help Kids Understand Math Concepts
How Math Concepts and Math Skills Work Together and Why You Should Care
Do You Love or Hate Common Core Math Standards?
Is Your Child Dependent on Algorithms … and is that a Bad Thing?
Math Takes Time to Conquer
Is Mathematical Understanding Really Necessary?
Why Does Mathnasium of Littleton Focus on Foundational Math Skills
Why Some Middle School Kids Act Like they Don’t Care
Why Do Kids Sometimes Goof-Off in Math Class?
Understanding the Math Disability Dyscalculia
When are Math Rules Not Really Rules?
Confusing Math Vocabulary Frustrates Students and Parents
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