Insights from a Mathnasium of Gainesville Instructor

1. What is the most common thing you see in new students coming to Mathnasium for the first time?

A: New students are often surprised we meet them at their level, we work on things they have knowledge of and they're excited to show what they know. They love getting help with their homework and getting to know the instructors they work with. They may be timid at first and worried about asking questions because of how it is in their classroom, but they quickly open up and have fun.

2. If there was one thing you could tell parents before they bring their student to Mathnasium what would it be?

A: You would be surprised by how much they enjoy it! Most parents think their kids would hate an hour of math, but they tend to enjoy their time at Mathnasium and ask when they get to come next.

3. What things do the most successful students have in common?

A: Students who are the most successful know to ask for help! Everyone struggles at some point and the best students know when they're stuck and should ask for assistance. We're here to help and the best students take full advantage of that.

4. What are some of the ways you teach math to your students?

A: Our favorite methods include verbal explanations and visual ones to help students understand. The best thing is multiple examples that we both help them through and let them try on their own. Kids learn by doing, so we make sure to get them to try on their own once they have the idea.

5. What do you think is the coolest thing about Mathnasium?

A: Seeing a student finally understand something they've been struggling on in school. We often hear "Why didn't my teacher just say that" when we explain homework in a way that makes sense to the student. It's the best thing in the world to see their 'aha' moment when they get it and are excited about it.