Mystery Math: Insights From a Math Teacher
Many families—moms and kids alike—find that math can be confusing and even intimidating, especially as their children approach junior and senior high math. We asked Kathy Kohler, a professor of mathematics at Bob Jones University, to help solve some of the mystery of math—here are some of her insights:
Math Curriculum
What features does a good math curriculum have?
A good curriculum will teach concepts on three levels:
- Concrete (manipulatives)
- Semi-Concrete (pictures)
- Abstract (symbolic notation)
This enables a student to grasp the concept in stages and truly absorb it into his experience, memory, and reasoning.
A good math curriculum will also teach toward understanding—remember the goal of teaching is for the student to understand the material, not just memorize it.
- Choose textbooks that teach the concept in the student workbook, not just in the teacher’s manual.
- Check a chapter to see whether the explanations are clear.
- Be sure the exercises progress from easy to hard.
Math Help
Get help if a subject is difficult for you as the teacher. There are distance learning programs available that will help you actually teach the subject, whether online or DVD. Co-ops may also have classes to teach to a group of students. Don’t let your own limitations in a subject limit your student’s potential in that subject.
Algebra Readiness
When is a student ready for algebra?
Generally, students should be ready for algebra by Grade 9. They should have the mastery of standard math by then (including fractions, decimals and percents) as well as the maturity for higher reasoning.
Could/should a student ever take Algebra I earlier?
Yes, advanced students could handle Algebra 1 before 9th grade. However, it is not essential for a student to begin Algebra 1 before Grade 9 to be prepared for college. A student entering college with a good foundation in algebra, geometry, and precalculus (advanced algebra and trigonometry) will be prepared to go into any math related major. Some college professors prefer that students take calculus in college without having taken it in high school.
* The Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test can help reveal whether your student is ready for Algebra I or whether Pre-Algebra should be used first.
Math Sequence
What sequence do you recommend for math courses?
Typically, a student interested in a college track, especially if it’s a math or science related field, should follow this sequence:
- Algebra I
- Geometry
- Algebra II
- Pre-Calculus
This is because the student will apply some of Algebra I in Geometry (keeping algebra fresh) and then will have the advantage of placing Algebra II immediately before Pre-Calculus (where it’s needed most).
What if a student does not have college plans?
If a student does not have a strong math aptitude, Algebra 2 and Geometry could be taken in any order. Consumer/Business Math should be taken during the senior year of high school. Remember, math is an important part of every grade for developing logic, reasoning, and problem solving—skills used in every area of life!