Study skills to master maths
As children advance along their learning journey, maths can become more complex and challenging. It is essential for children to develop and master maths from a young age, to prepare them for the next stages of education. It is important to instil good study skills in our children so that they have the necessary tools and support needed to become proficient in maths, in and out of school. This blog explores 4 important study skills to foster in your child to help them master maths.
1. Practise makes perfect
We know that maths doesn’t come easy to everyone, especially when it comes to complex equations and difficult problems. A good study skill to ingrain in your child to help them build confidence in maths is consistent practice. Completing past or practice maths exam papers enables your child to familiarise themselves with the format and structure and helps them retain the knowledge. Encourage your child to apply what they’ve learnt to other maths problems, and it will help solidify their understanding. It is also important to ensure that your child is completing their homework, as this is a beneficial way of practising maths problems and applying what has been taught in class.
2. Use visual aids
If your child is a visual learner, they may be more likely to grasp information more easily through visual teaching methods compared to verbal explanations. For a concept to sink in, a visual learner may prefer to learn via pictures, images, and spatial understanding, in order to visualise maths concepts in their mind. If your child finds it easier to learn through charts, diagrams, pictures, and videos, equip them with a good selection of tools and stationary for them to use. Highlighters, sticky notes, and coloured pens allow your child to draw pictures and diagrams, underline concepts, and create flashcards to prompt their memory and retrieve information. If your child is struggling to memorise formulas or concepts, help them create some colourful flashcards and test their knowledge.
3. Summarise concepts and formulas
There seems to be an infinite number of maths formulas and equations, so it can be difficult for children to memorise everything. Rather than focusing on memorisation, comprehension is more important when it comes to maths. This can be done by summarising what has been taught, which is an effective and useful way to break down maths concepts for improved comprehension. Ensure your child has access to a maths notebook and encourage them to summarise the key concepts taught in class by writing out maths formulas, procedures, and equations.
4. Take notes
Actively taking notes both in class or during study can help with focus and strengthen children’s understanding of important maths concepts. As your child progresses through later stages of primary and secondary school, it can be overwhelming and difficult to comprehend and retain information. A good way to help children improve their comprehension of material and retain knowledge is to take diligent notes. This gives students the opportunity to review their notes to refresh their memory, especially to get ahead of upcoming quizzes or tests. Encourage your child to take notes either while they’re studying or when they’re in class so that they fully understand what they are learning.
Every child learns differently and develops different learning styles. Help foster your child’s learning and development by promoting useful study skills which help students to grasp maths concepts, and overcome challenges. At NumberWorks’nWords, we focus our efforts on helping young learners achieve their full potential through personalised maths and English tutoring. To learn more about tutoring at NumberWorks’nWords, get in touch with your local centre, or book a free assessment today!
