I can remember all the way back when I was in 3rd grade and we had a multiplication competition. Even at a young age I was very competitive so I studied for weeks knowing that I had to show up and show out. When the time came I made it all the way to my 9’s before I was eliminated. This taught me that more than anything I learned best from engagement. When a teacher engages kids, that creates a fun space for the kids. When the kids feel that learning is fun they are more energetic and happy to learn. That’s why engagement is so powerful. While teaching I learned that it’s just not always about what you’re teaching but how you actually involve the scholars. When the scholars feel like they are a part of the lesson while you’re instructing them it makes learning fun. It gives them a sense of purpose, that they are included. Also allowing them to get the questions answered that they have. This is important because every student has a different learning style. Some are visual learners, some learn from doing and asking questions, and some learn best from experience.
I learned best from experience. Having a competition helped me focus and losing helped me learn from others. I learned other multiplication problems that I missed from my peers (I would never tell them that). Being able to learn while at the chalk board showed me just how fun it could be. It wasn’t embarrassing the way our teacher taught us because she gave us all an equal opportunity to come learn and show our mathematical strengths. The key is to teach and not make kids feel overwhelmed or afraid.
When I started teaching math I made sure to give every student the same opportunity to learn what their strengths were so that I could properly help them elevate . Engaging your kids early helps them with confidence. It gives them the courage to face many obstacles. They will think of math as fun instead of a burden. When teachers teach without engagement the scholars tend to get lost and feel overwhelmed. Allowing them to talk amongst peers and ask questions helps them understand the instruction more.
I know that giving students something to look forward to helps them grow more fond of math. At our school we created Initiatives so that the kids can have something more than just good grades to strive towards. Our multiplication license has given students a purpose to learn their multiplication. This initiative gives students something to aim toward, so that they can be a part of a prestigious club of multiplication masters. Multiplication licenses are like wearing a badge of honor in our school. Teachers even take the test and are proud to have gotten their license. Learning can be as fun as you make it, and it’s always rewarding when the kids fall In love with it. So make learning engaging, fun, awesome and give the students something to look forward to. It will all pay off in the end.
Here are some suggestions for engaging math games both in the classroom and at home!
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-Berry