The Ability to Understand the Problem - Essay Example

I find that the most important topic would be problem-solving. The book provides an accurate perspective that the most important aspect in solving mathematical problems would first be the ability to understand the problem. This sounds simple enough but the challenge lies in breaking mindsets that limit the brain in fully comprehending the question to be able to come up with the solution.

Algebra is one of the most difficult concepts and students easily repel this when they have to deal with problems that involve algebraic expressions. This part of mathematics involves a great deal of solving for the unknown and contains different aspects and areas of study expressed in variables that require more advanced skills than regular problem-solving. Algebra used to be an advanced subject that was usually taught in higher grades but this has been revised and more recently students as early as pre-K-2 are already introduced to this area of mathematics which further proves the emphasis duly given to it (Biilstein, Libeskind, and Lott, 2010).

            Keeping in mind that some students may be at different levels in terms of comprehending algebraic equations, it would be indispensable to start the lesson by giving an overview of this concept and expounding from an introduction to the definition of variables and how this is important in algebra. There must be some form of process where the students will be assimilated to a reinforced attitude that allows for algebraic thinking. Teaching algebra may be challenging especially when there will be students who simply rebuff the idea of having to deal with the subject. There are ways to avoid this attitude but it requires patience and an open mind. To this end, it may also be helpful to start with algebraic expressions in more tangible terms by incorporating picture examples and other more common things and then slowly building up to an advanced level when the students are deemed to be ready and able to solve more complicated problems.

            This course has been very helpful in integrating the theoretical element of teaching mathematics and perceiving them in the actual room setting. Many fundamental concepts are often overlooked that we as teachers must be mindful of when teaching the subject and in the profession in general. The book offers a comprehensive take on mathematics with a holistic presentation of concepts and lessons that are presented not only in a conventional manner but aim to be more interactive and encompassing by including historical sidebars, colorful presentations, and a multilevel approach which is not only useful for a teacher but also translates to effective classroom management.

Being a professional mathematics teacher would pose some difficulties in ascertaining the level of the students and enabling them to appreciate mathematics especially when most of them already have preconceived notions that math is a difficult subject. Most students easily shy away when faced with demanding math problems without exerting effort to try and solve them on their own. This is the main dilemma for any mathematics teacher and this consumes most of the problems that are encountered inside the classroom.

            The concepts that I have learned provide for a thorough appreciation of not only mathematics as a subject but the application of available theories and proven perspectives that all point towards a congruent teaching strategy for me as a teacher and an innovative appreciation that may hopefully be imbued by the students. In most of the lessons, there were graphical equations and alternative solutions that were useful when faced with difficult math problems.

The course has helped me in developing my teaching philosophy in so far as confirming that there is no one easy way to make math enjoyable for all but there are ways to make it manageable and the available resources would provide much-needed support toward this goal. To reiterate, it is required for any educator to keep an open mind and persist for the benefit of the young minds that you help cultivate. Read More