Helpful Tips for Grade School Math Teachers

     When you're teaching your kid how to solve a Math problem, you've probably noticed that a simple solution can be quite hard to explain. Some kids are really better in analyzing mathematical equations and problems, but that doesn't mean that you can't teach your kid how to be better and enjoy learning the subject. There are some other methods on how you can make learning Math interesting.

       You can try an alternative method - don't do what the other teachers usually do like giving a lesson and a test afterward, this doesn't usually work. An alternative method is to present the lesson in a situation where your kid can relate, something that he or she usually experiences every day. By being familiar with the situation, your kids will be able to analyze the problem more and come up with an answer easily.

       Consider the learning style of your kid - children have different learning styles. Some kids find it easier to learn if they are able to see what you are talking about, this means learning through visuals. You can provide your lessons in attractive charts or drawings. Some students learn better while listening. So to make your lesson more interesting, you can explain your lessons through fun songs.

       Provide various activities. Math involves a lot of problem solving, so simply asking your kids to solve problems the usual way is not effective. You can either present the problems in the form of a game, a puzzle or an interactive activity.

Or you can try these helpful techniques for your students:

Written Technique.

       For achieving a framework for the orderly development of mathematical thought and skills, you should encourage your kids to do written practice through drills and worksheets because it is a very integral part of mathematics education.

Visual technique.

       This technique makes problem solving very interesting. Use pictures, charts, and tables to explain ideas and concepts. You may also find workbooks that are picture-based to provide your kids with insights into problems and transcend the written words.

Mental technique.

       Teach your kids how and when to use mental math techniques. For example, when adding 9+9+9, ask them to think 10+10+10=30-3=27 all the way to higher numbers.

Verbal technique.

       This is very helpful particularly when your kids are more interested in language. Teach your kids the meaning of root words in the mathematics context. You may also teach them how to verbally explain their thought process and reasoning. For example, you teach percent by breaking down the word into "per CENT" and it would mean "for each 100". With this definition, 5% of 200 would let them think 5 for the first 100 and 5 for the second 100. Therefore, 5+5 = 10.

Tactile Technique.

       If your kids love playing with cards, dice, chips, and other manipulatives, this technique will surely interest them. You can use various types of manipulatives to teach your kids the concepts of math. Counting chips are best for learning the four major mathematical operations which are addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. For learning probability, dice and cards are the most appropriate tool.