Thursday, September 14, 2023

Exit Slip: Skemp Article Class Discussion

Photo taken by Jessica Williams
Images drawn were more of when our group discussed
our experiences with instrumental vs relational math.

Personally, I think that relational math should be taught first because I tend to see many students whom once they learn the "easy" way (instrumental), they lose motivation to learn the underlying reason why (relational). Letting them explore the relational way first encourages them to do some critical thinking for themselves. However, relational may be difficult for some topics, so it's sometimes easier to start with instrumental, but eventually both ways should be touched upon. 

I hope students will have fun and come to appreciate that there is meaning to the math they learn and take interest in it, or at least not come out of class hating it. After the class discussion, I think we can work towards this goal by expressing a positive attitude and not giving up on our students. If we, as math teachers, don't believe in them, how can they believe in themselves to improve in math?  

2 comments:

  1. Hi Lisa, since everyone in class is at a different level of math, a mixed approach to teaching math is required so that everyone can learn most effectively. Nowadays, most teachers start teaching relational mathematics and then teach instrumental mathematics. Yet, there will always be those students in the class who only care for the instrumental since their underlying goal will always be to succeed on the exam. Unless we change our exams to emphasize relational mathematics over instrumental mathematics, most students would not care. Yet, most math classes I have taken all follow a monotonous routine of lessons, homework and assessments. Thus, my view on secondary math is biased. I can't wait to see how we can spice our classes. 🌶️

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Lisa, thank you for your post. I agree that we should have confidence in our students. Could you please elaborate further regarding the three things that made you 'stop' as you read this piece and explain why they stood out to you?

    ReplyDelete