Thursday, August 1, 2013

Which NCTM math process standard did you encounter more throughout years of learning mathematics?

Which NCTM math process standard did you encounter more throughout years of learning mathematics?

            I would have to say that problem solving is an area that I remember most during my school years.  Almost every concept learned can be turned into some type of problem to be solved.  Word problems were not my favorite because I would struggle with them at times but with years and years of using them I finally got to the point where I understood what was being asked and was able to complete them with minimal errors.  Problem solving can be in the form of word problems or in just answering a problem such as subtraction or multiplication.  Math revolves around problem solving in its variety of forms.

What NCTM math content standard did you enjoy learning in school?

What NCTM math content standard did you enjoy learning in school?

            My favorite math concept in school was algebra.  I remember my ninth grade year having algebra 1 part 1 with Mrs. Abernathy.  Her method of teaching was to use the overhead projector and review how to use a concept and then reviewing multiple problems until we understood.  We would take turns working on the overhead projector to answer the problems.  I caught on to each concept with ease and enjoyed working each problem.  I felt accomplished and smart after her class.  Fully understanding a concept makes math so fun and I hope that I am able to bring that to my future classroom.  

Why does the atmosphere in the classroom matter?

Why does the atmosphere in the classroom matter?

            The atmosphere is vital in the success of a classroom. Teachers should make their classrooms neat, clean, orderly, and comfortable.  There are many ways to do this.  With the observation that I have been able to do I have seen many different ways to make the atmosphere inviting.  One in particular that sticks out to me, which I remember my teachers doing when I was in school, is to greet the students as they come in by name and with a smile.  This lets them feel like they are special.  Keeping materials in a place that they students know with labels is a great way to keep organized.  Atmosphere matters and can be the make or break point for successful learning.  

How have my experiences influenced my attitude toward teaching math?

How have my experiences influenced my attitude toward teaching math?

            Knowing how hard I had to work to understand math and watching the outcome of my hard work, I want to teach math and help my students learn to love math as much as I do.  Math is one of those subjects where once you understand a concept and can do the work you feel accomplished.  We all want to feel accomplished and we all can once we fully understand the concept being taught.  I want all of my students to feel a sense of accomplishment after my lessons.

How I was taught mathematics throughout my school years.

How I was taught mathematics throughout my school years.

            I loved math during my school years.  I remember struggling at first but once I got it I loved it.  In second grade I struggled a lot.  I was coming from a school district that was very relaxed in its teaching.  My second grade teacher knew this and helped me tremendously.  I remember using manipulatives a lot which really helped.  My teachers were dedicated to making sure that each student learned the material and was confident in moving on to the next lesson.