Encouraging Understanding in Mathematics

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Math isn’t just about getting the right answer. It’s a language, a way of thinking, and a path to new discoveries. Sadly, many students get turned off by math because they think it’s all about finding the one correct solution. But teachers know the journey to that solution is what really matters.

Shifting the focus to emphasize this journey isn’t just about honing math skills. It’s about empowering students to see themselves as active participants in the world of math. Every student has the right to be curious, investigate, and uncover the ins and outs of math.

So, how can teachers encourage this approach? Well, in the classroom, doing activities that make sense of math is a powerful tool. These activities make math more inclusive for all learners and give teachers insight into students’ reasoning and knowledge.

For example, one approach involves taking away the question or numbers from a problem. Instead, students are asked to notice and wonder about a mathematical scenario or graph. This helps them focus on understanding the situation rather than just finding an answer. It also gives teachers insight into students’ initial thoughts, so they can offer tailored guidance.

Teachers can also challenge students by using problems with no numbers, just images or visual scenarios. This encourages students to make mathematical observations based on what they see, helping them think critically and analytically.

Another strategy is to give students the answer upfront, like through an “in-out” table. This encourages students to explore and describe everything they notice about the answer, rather than just trying to get it. This helps uncover students’ abilities to reason and think critically, leading to a deeper understanding of math concepts.

Focusing on the journey, not just the destination, is key to fostering genuine engagement and understanding in math. By promoting sensemaking and embracing the process of mathematical exploration, educators can create a generation of learners who are confident in their ability to actively take part in and make meaningful connections in the world of math.