Mathnasium of Greensboro: Building Strong Math Habits for the School Year

Q1: What is one simple habit that can help students stay on track with math during the school year?

A1: Consistently reviewing the topic later in the day for just a few minutes will help solidify the learning. Students can do this by explaining the process of what they did to a parent, guardian, tutor, or even a sibling. They can write two or three problems, and solve them if they don't have specific homework in the skill already. This consistent review will also promote active recall and strengthen retention and mastery far better than weekly marathon study sessions or "cramming" for the test.

Q2: What should students do when they come across a math problem they don’t understand?

A2: They can start by identifying what they know and what they don't know, what is provided and what is being asked in the problem. Students can try to solve a simpler, smaller version of the problem. They can sketch a diagram or simple picture. Sometimes, simply reading the problem aloud can help them determine how to work the problem or identify where they get stuck. They can even take a brief break and come back to it later, allowing the brain to work on the problem in the background in the meantime.

Q3: How can building strong math skills early in the school year help students later on?

A3: Math is a cumulative skill. Mastering foundational skills like numerical fluency, fractions, and order of operations early on ensures that less mistakes happen when more complex topics are introduced later. Students are able to focus on learning multi-step logic, critical reasoning, and word problem solving. Mastering skills builds confidence and reduces test anxiety as well.

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