1. What is the most common thing you see in new students coming to Mathnasium for the first time?
A: Insecurity/lack of confidence in math is one of the most common things I see in them. Students who are able to do some questions but are still unsure about their methods or accuracy of their calculations. These students will sometimes ask, "Is 9 times 3 equal 27?" or something similar. So while they may know some math facts and have practiced them, they still don't trust themselves to correctly remember and pull from their own math knowledge.
2. If there was one thing you could tell parents before they bring their student to Mathnasium what would it be?
A: Mathnasium is a center for growth. We aren't a short-term solution program to just help students study before their finals next month, but a program to help students constantly develop their skills and be prepared for the following year. We want to be a vital part of their math journey, not just a footnote in their education.
3. What things do the most successful students have in common?
A: In my experience, the most successful students all have the right mindset. The desire to grow past their mistakes and not let their mishaps define them. These students bounce back from getting a few questions wrong, even a whole page wrong, and are open to our support and guidance.
4. What are some of the ways you teach math to your students?
A: One of my favorite ways to help students is with manipulatives, in particular, the fraction pieces. We have a nice, colorful, smooth set that students love to feel and interact with, but most importantly, it does a great job of visualizing the different fraction sizes and help students visually see how big some fractions are compared to others or to see how some fractions are equivalent.
5. What do you think is the coolest thing about Mathnasium?
A: I think the coolest thing about Mathnasium is our rewards system. Many times, we've had new students who aren't that interested in math or even dislike math but they are interested in our rewards, and so our rewards system is able to entice them to get started. Then, over time, we are able to help them see math in a more positive light, all the while, getting a few rewards here and there during their progress.
