By Vic Odarve
Like a game of chess, math involves analyses, deep understanding, and practice. Analyzing every steps as to why it is necessary is very critical in math calculations. Coupled with the analyses, deep understanding of the given information related to the problems makes the situation clear; hence solution will appear. Finally, practice by reworking similar types of math problems will give the students a thorough understanding. These habits develop student’s math skills.
Math lectures
Yes, in math, analyses of the full problems must be pictured out. These include the given information and the questions about the problems. Then think of the approach, methods to be employed, and the principle to be involved that you think will work on the problems, leading to its solution. If however you could not get through, review the lecture notes, if whatever, how the teacher works on the similar problems. Your approach can be different, but it can still be just as effective and yield the same answer. This prepares the students perk up to think of possible results; thus developing their mathematics skills.
Math exam
Like the game of chess, deep understanding on every movement matters. With a sound foundation in the theories and principles, math problems can be worked out simpler. It also builds confidence. If it involves complex formulas, break it down into little parts. Analyze and read the steps. If you don’t understand, take a break. Your brain will continue to work on the problem subconsciously. You will often find that after a little work on the steps that initially baffled you, these make sense. Hence, it would be necessary to strive to understand mathematical concepts and its applications and what the math problems are all about. Understanding will develop your skills in math.
Madonna University, Elele Campus, Rivers State, Nigeria
Practice math by reworking the same problems until no hitches on your solution. Work on your own until you are familiar with the type of the problems. It will give you an experience of what occurred. If you get stuck up, see your lecture notes. On applied math problems, always check your final answer if it is logical or reasonable. Always check the units of measurement involve as units sometimes will tell you that you get a mistake. Rework your classroom math problems at home until you are confident that you can do it alone. Practice makes perfect, after all.
Math is difficult but with the habit of analyzing, understanding the formulas and concepts, and ceaseless practice, it will grow your skills. And who knows that one day, you will become a mathematician.
ODARVE'S NOTEBOOK IN THE PHILIPPINES 