The Power of Thought-Provoking Math: Fostering Learning Through Critical Thinking
Over the years the approach to teaching mathematics has evolved and, sometimes de-evolved, significantly over the years. Traditional methods often involve repetitive drills and memorization, emphasizing rote learning. However, a growing body of research shows that math education can be significantly enhanced when it encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Singapore pioneered this approach to teaching Math and it has paid rich dividends over the last 30 years. We at SAM Singapore Math are bringing this approach of teaching math from Singapore.
Th benefits of this approach that fosters a deeper and more meaningful understanding of mathematical concepts includes:
- Engagement and Interest: Repetitive math exercises may lead to disinterest and boredom among students. On the other hand, math that requires thinking engages students’ curiosity and stimulates their interest. When children are presented with real-world problems or puzzles that require thoughtful consideration, they are more likely to stay engaged and find joy in the learning process.
- Understanding Concepts Rather than Memorization: Traditional methods often focus on memorizing formulas and procedures. Thought-provoking math, however, encourages students to understand the underlying concepts. Instead of simply memorizing multiplication tables, for example, students might explore the concept of multiplication through visual models or real-life scenarios. This approach promotes a deeper understanding that goes beyond surface-level memorization.
- Developing Problem-Solving Skills: Math is not just about numbers; it’s about problem-solving. Thought-provoking math challenges students to think critically and solve complex problems. Whether it’s figuring out a pattern, analyzing data, or solving a real-world mathematical challenge, students develop valuable problem-solving skills that are applicable beyond the confines of the classroom.
- Building Confidence and Resilience: When students tackle challenging math problems and successfully find solutions, it boosts their confidence. It teaches them that it’s okay to face difficulties, and through perseverance and critical thinking, they can overcome obstacles. This resilience is a crucial life skill that extends beyond mathematics into various aspects of their academic and personal lives.
- Preparation for a Changing World: In today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to think critically and solve problems is highly valued. Thought-provoking math prepares students for the challenges they will face in the future job market, where adaptability and innovative thinking are key. It equips them with the skills needed in a world where automation is on the rise, emphasizing problem-solving abilities that machines cannot replicate.
To illustrate this, try the problems below with your 3rd or 4th grader:
- “John has 64 brown chocolate candies and 72 white chocolate candies. He wants to pack them into identical boxes so that each box has the same number of brown candies and each box has the same number of white candies (but within each box, brown candies do not have to equal white candies). What is the smallest number of boxes he can pack them in? “
Or,
2. “What is the largest common factor of 64 and 72?”
Many children can answer #2. But answering #1 requires a bit more thinking. Questions like these test the student’s comprehension, problem solving abilities and application of learned concepts.
At SAM Singapore Math, our curriculum is very thoughtfully developed and laid out to hone these exact skills from a very early age. Our teaching method is to first understand where the child is in his thinking, and then ask probing questions to help them solve the problem themselves. For example, if a child does not recognize the word problem as a “factors” problem, we may ask:
“Lets pretend you only have 64 brown chocolates . . .what are the different ways you can pack them equally in boxes?”
Then we may repeat the same question for the white chocolates.
“Lets pretend you only have 72 white chocolates . . .what are the different ways you can pack them equally in boxes?”
By this time, many children begin to see the connection to the concept of “factors” and are able to answer the question themselves.
If you would like your child to develop these skills and enjoy math, call us today or schedule an assessment.