How to Help Learners excel in Mathematics

4 in every 5 students admits to having a mathematics problem. Some students have entirely lost confidence in their ability to have a grasp of mathematics and we all know that parents are bothered by this information.

Why Mathematics Problem Persists
One of the reasons why mathematics problem seems to last throughout students’ lifetime in school is that every new maths topic requires the knowledge of a topic learnt earlier before learning can take place.
For instance. students who don’t understand basic arithmetic will have trouble in geometry, those who don’t understand geometry will have trouble in trigonometry, and one cannot learn calculus without a good knowledge of trigonometry.

How to Tackle Poor Performance in Mathematics
Studies have shown that “The stronger your foundation in the basic, the easier it is for you to move into more challenging math and on to a STEM degree, virtually guaranteed employment and good living.”
The proven way to solve the mathematics problem is to find out which knowledge of basic mathematics is missing. To do this, schools and teachers need to evaluate each student and tailor their lessons towards the topic previously learnt topic(s) which they appear to be struggling with. This process is called ‘adaptive learning’. I.e. You adapt the learning experience (or personalise it) to fit each student’s need.

5 Ways to Make Teaching Mathematics Adaptive

Evaluate. Test students before every lesson and analyse if they have enough prerequisite knowledge to learn the new topic to be taught.
Revise. Constantly revise previously learnt topics especially when the knowledge is needed to grasp a new lesson.
Map. Create a prerequisite map that indicates the minimum level of mastery needed in a previous topic before a new one can be learnt. E.g. Score up to 70% in Algebra before learning Simultaneous equations
Feedback. Make students aware of their own learning gaps. This can be more effective if parents are well-informed on the progress their wards are making.
Practice. Consistent practise is the key to accelerated learning. Give students access to an adaptive learning solution that enables them to practise and improve consistently.

Summary
The knowledge of mathematics is needed on a daily basis (even beyond the classroom). You can prepare learners for the future by leveraging on an adaptive learning solution that enables you to evaluate, revise, map, give timely feedback and provide access to unlimited practice.

Gradely.NG is a free adaptive learning solution for secondary schools in Nigeria. Create a Gradely Account for your school today,

Screenshot of Gradely Adaptive Learning app — Screenshot of Gradely.ng Adaptive Learning app

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