“We have to flatten the curve.” How many times have we heard that in the past few months? It is one of the reasons why we needed to pay attention when we learned about exponential growth in algebra class.
For many of us, the lessons happened long ago and we’re no having a quick refresher course.
We live in a world where mathematics is important: for public health, for family budgeting, for making good decisions in many ways. We also live in a world where many people believe mathematics is difficult, or hat only some of us are good at maths and that it is okay to say, “I don’t do maths.”
Our mission is to change those beliefs and lay a foundation for mathematics to be meaningful, enjoyable and accessible for all.
We are not alone in the mission. The National Council for teaching Mathematics’ Catalyzing Change initiative also focuses on broadening the purpose of school mathematics, dismantling obstacles faces when learning mathematics, implementing equitable instructional practices, and organising mathematics to provide a strong foundation of deep mathematical understanding for each and every child. (NCTM, 2020)
Teachers, too are working hard to change th narrative of mathematics from a painful time memorisation and worksheets to an enjoyable sense making and problem-solving experience.
As school moves home, we also want to see these conversations being shared at home. Doing mathematics at home should not be the land of “death by worksheet” and endless skill practice.
Students should be learning by explaining their thinking. Yes, there is some skill practice, but much of that can be in the form of games and applications, not just constantly completing worksheets.
Written for parents and caregivers in grades PreK-6, teachers can share ORIGO at Home with their school community to reinforce maths concepts and skills along a research-base, developmental scope & sequence. To find out more go to www.origoeducation.com/athome.
This article was written by Dr Sara Delano Moore and Peter Stowasser.
Dr Sara Delano Moore is a director of professional learning and mathematics advisory board chair, and Peter Stowasser is the lead writer and mathematics advisory board member at ORIGO Education.
Source: Education Review