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Numeracy
Today mathematics is more important than ever as the mathematical
demands of everyday life have increased and we are influenced by new
technologies. As a result school mathematics has changed
over recent years and has left a lot of parents anxious and confused.
Many parents remember that their own maths lessons emphasised 'doing
sums' - basic calculations using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. While accurate calculation is still an important part of
mathematics, it now includes knowing (or being able to work out) what
calculations are need to be done to solve particular problems. This is
one aspect of leading children to think mathematically about the
real world - to look for patterns and relationships expressed in numbers.
In doing so they must learn to estimate, classify, measure, order,
manipulate objects and make sense of results. These are some of the
mathematical skills learnt in primary schools.
How parents can help with mathematics
Here are some of the things you can do to support your child(ren)'s
experience of mathematics at school:
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building
confidence - express positive attitudes towards mathematics and
praise your child(ren)'s efforts.
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if
helping with maths, make it fun - and always remember the importance
of understanding. You'll probably find that demonstrating with solid
objects (matches, buttons, lengths of string etc.) will help younger
children to grasp a point.
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especially
with younger children, try to cultivate a sense of number, size,
volume, area, weight, time and distance in everyday life. Join them
in estimating, counting and calculating.
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Let
your child(ren) see you using mathematics. Show how you decide on
the different quantities you buy at the shops or how you check your
bills, measure a piece of material or wood in preparation for a
household job, or work out your car's fuel consumption.
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encourage
the use of a calculator as a useful tool for mathematical problem
solving, not as a substitute for thinking. Bear in mind that
understanding what needs to be done and why is more important than
the mechanics of calculation.
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before
helping with calculations, check on what methods are being taught at
school to avoid confusing your children.
Additional
resources
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