As a middle school math teacher I have so many
students enter my room in the fall broken down and discouraged about their
abilities in Math. Unable to keep pace
with the rest of the class they fall further and further behind each year. With skills that directly build on one
another they feel helpless to make up the gap that is formed.
In so many ways 7th grade math gives them
an opportunity to become successful in math.
Until recently it was really the first time the curricula on application
rather than skills. To many struggling
learners this breathes a breath of fresh air into their academic careers. I have seen many students who could not
remember their math facts, but could easily solve a complex equation or even
the dreaded word problems with the help of a calculator.
By rewarding small successes and chipping away at
the negative perception of their math skills I have seen so many begin to
blossom and most of all believe in their capabilities. I have witnessed that confidence grow with
every success. By focusing on their
achievement I believe they actually begin to expect more from their selves.
Struggling learners can be some of the most
difficult but ultimately rewarding students for teachers of any subject. Perseverance and building confidence are the
keys to their success.
No comments:
Post a Comment