Friday, August 17, 2012

Math at elementary level



It is said that if the foundation is strong, then only the structure will be strong otherwise it will break down easily. This saying is applicable to our education system as well. Those kids, who have strong foundation in studies, perform better than others. A strong foundation means a strong career. Math is a subject which for sure needs strong foundation. If the very concepts of math are not clear, then the whole math subject will look like a nightmare to the kids.

In India, at elementary level only one teacher is allocated for all the subjects. All the subjects are taught by single teacher. But the question is if it is the right way to lay the strong foundation for kids? Most of the subjects are theoretical at this level except math. Math is mostly practical and requires detailed understanding of the basics. But a single teacher might not be able to explain the nitty gritty of each subject effectively to the kids. 

Kids should be exposed to the concepts of math at an early age. Currently, at elementary level, kids are not taught the concepts of math in detail. They are just given an overview of math’s concepts. As a result, kids just know how to reach to a solution through some steps but they do not know the reason behind each and every step. It hinders their analytical thinking and logical reasoning. Elementary teachers lack the skills to teach precisely and reasonably. We cannot expect them to be expert at math.

 We tend to ignore the fact that math needs a strong foundation. We always think that math at primary level is simple and doesn’t require much explanation and understanding. However, we are under false notion. Math at elementary level is not only addition and subtraction.The reason behind each and every step is of great importance. Kids should know the reason behind each and every concept. Elementary teachers should be exceptionally trained to teach with great precision and reasoning.

                                                                                                                                  
Regards

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