Integrating Math

Math is not my favorite subject. There are many teachers who might say the same thing. Does this matter? What if a teacher is teaching science, social studies or computer skills?

Not only does it matter, I dare say that a dislike or fear of math can even add slight frustration to otherwise pleasant everyday activities such as cooking, leaving a tip, purchasing products and exercise. Math is so inter-linked and inter-related to the world around us. No one can really live life without using any math. In addition (see?), the attitudes that we have regarding our own learning and comfort level in a subject is what we communicate to the students we teach. For example, when teaching students about stars the discussion might move toward light years. A teacher might hesitate to move into greater depth for fear of not being able to explain or work calculations.

As we move toward understanding integrated education, and cross-curricular connections, it becomes important that each of us are confident in approaching math-related problems, and in turn, helping our students develop their confidence in tackling real-life math problems.

This week, we are launching a new course called Common Core Mathematics for All Teachers. We have designed it to be relevant to “All Teachers” because we believe that every teacher needs to equip themselves with the basic principles of teaching math, in order to deliver a better quality and standard education. And of course, for all those planning to implement STEM or other forms of cross-curricular teaching, this course will help you strengthen your math foundations.

I’ve got two questions for you this week…

How do you encounter math in your general non-school activities (anyone watching the weather for snow?)?

And, when non-math teachers equip themselves to integrate math into their subjects, how does this change our classrooms?