Diligence Equals Success in Math
A friend of mine recently asked me what could be done for a teen struggling with algebra. Could some special instruction or tutoring help? Or perhaps more careful instruction? There is a simple answer: Diligence.
What needs to happen at most all levels of math up through perhaps calculus is diligence. Diligence on the part of the student. Diligence on the part of the teacher(s).
For insured student success in mathematics, this is what needs to happen:
- Student is given the lesson. The lesson may be oral, written, via video, internet or a combination of these delivery methods.
- Student does the assigned math homework problems associated with the lesson.
- Teacher, parent, or helper corrects the homework. Then give the homework back to the student with check marks by all incorrect problems.
- Student attempts incorrect math problems again. If needed, additional instruction and help is provided before problems are attempted again.
- Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until all problems are correctly done.
Even in a homeschool situation, it may be difficult to find the time to go through this process. But perhaps a spouse or older brother or sister of the student could help out. In a public school, this whole process is just not possible without parents helping out. Think about it: If a teacher has 90 students and has to spend 1/2 hour with each math student every day, they would need 45 hours a day! So as parents you need to help them on this!
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Great article. I teach first year university students math, and finished the semester, giving them grades. I sent them email the article, suggesting that they continue reviewing the material for their own benefit. As a suggestion, may I mention an excellent book,”Teaching and Helping Students Think and Do Better” on amazon.