Why Math is Often Misunderstood (and How to Prevent Falling Behind at the Start of the New School Year)

As parents, we want to see our children thrive this school year, and that includes math class. But math is one of those subjects that students often either love or find incredibly challenging and frustrating.

Since math is often misunderstood and causes a lot of school-related anxiety, we put together some math FAQs. Read why it’s so important to ensure that students who don’t have a strong math foundation at the start of the school year have a support system in place to prevent falling further behind.

Math FAQs

Can you explain what a “cumulative subject” is and why it’s so easy for a student to fall behind in math?

Math is cumulative in the sense that topics build on previous topics. If a student hasn’t mastered foundational concepts, it becomes challenging to understand more complex content. For example, if a student doesn’t understand how to identify a common denominator, how will the student eliminate the denominators in a rational equation?

A student may compensate for a knowledge gap by memorizing examples or patterns, which will only cause the student to fall behind. A deep understanding of concepts must occur in order for the student to apply mathematical ideas to future problems.

What should students start doing in the first quarter to try not to fall behind and to set a solid foundation for the rest of the school year?

algebra homework with pencil

I recommend that students create and stick to a math routine. Practice is essential for mastery of math concepts, just as it is with playing a musical instrument or a sport. In advanced math courses, instructors may “recommend” problem sets but not collect them for a grade. Other teachers don’t assign math homework at all.

While it’s tempting for students to skip syllabus items that aren’t directly associated with a grade, completion of practice problems ensures mastery, which ultimately leads to success on formal assessments.

Many parents might not realize their kids are struggling with math until the first quarter report card comes home. What are some signs that a student might need individualized math help? 

Typically, teachers use smaller assessments, like quizzes, to gauge students’ understanding before more substantial assessments, like chapter tests. I suggest that parents try to determine whether their child successfully synthesizes these smaller chunks of material before waiting for a chapter test. Ask your child or the teacher how smaller assessments/assignments will gauge whether your child needs extra help.

Why is it helpful to match your child with a math tutor right at the start of the school year?

boy does math homework with blue marker

Math requires repetition and practice. math tutor can help with motivation and goal setting from the start of the school year.

A tutor can reinforce concepts learned in class, provide support with homework problems, review tests and quizzes in advance, and even look ahead at upcoming concepts when time permits.

How can a skilled math tutor help students build confidence?

Effective math tutors build rapport with students and create a collaborative learning environment where students aren’t afraid to ask questions. I’ve found that much of teaching math is confidence-building, which can only be achieved when students feel comfortable expressing their ideas about problem-solving. Creative thinking is as essential as logical thinking.

Your child can build confidence through one-on-one math help this school year

Our math experts here at Educational Connections can help your child understand (and even enjoy!) their math class this school year.

No matter what aspect of math is causing your child to struggle—whether it is elementary math or a college-level course—our caring and experienced tutors have the experience, compassion, and energy to make learning math fun, rewarding, and successful.

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