Indeed we had a full four hours of lecture on Math but we did not write any formula, turn on our calculator, nor try to solve an algebra equation on paper. Instead we flexed our mind to break the code of the magic poker trick, play dice together with the primary one children and try to outwit our classmate to win the paperclip game. Our concepts on Mathematics are recalled, we exercised hueristic skills, applied various thinking skills, activiated our metacognition mechanism and felt challenged and satisfied with our ability to find the solution to the problems. And all these are in fact the very essence of Mathematics.
The Ministry of Education of Singapore defines the Math Framework for Primary School Curricululm as following :
1. Mathematics is an excellent vehicle for the development and improvement of a person's intellectual, competence in logical reasoning, spatial visualization, analysis & abstract thought.
2. Students develop numercy, reasoning, thinking skill, and problem solving skills through the learning and application of Mathematics.3. Math is also a subject of enjoyment & excitement which offers students opportunities for creative work and moment of enlightment & joy.
Today, I am invited to look at Mathematics from a brand new angle. Mathematics is a vehicle, not the objectives of the teaching. Our goals are far beyond the conceptual and computational skills. Am I developing my children's intellectual ? Am I equipping them with problem-solve skills? Did I make them feel and look stupid by pushing Mathematics curriculum and methodology down their throats?
With knowledge comes responsibility, my mathematics class will not be the same hereafter...
Cheers,
Anita
on Teachers' Day 2010
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