Helping Students Overcome Math Problems

Helping Students Overcome Math ProblemsStudents who encounter math problems tend to feel a sense of frustration and overwhelm. Students also tend to hesitate when it comes to the next class. They may even think that math problems are too difficult for them to solve and to get through them. This can result in students becoming discouraged, which can lead to a lack of concentration, inability to stay on task, and a decrease in their overall performance.Students that struggle with math problems are usually intimidated by it. They worry that they will mess up, they will be embarrassed if they make a mistake, or they just do not feel confident that they will be able to solve it. These are all valid fears that need to be addressed. Even though you may have a friend or a teacher that has been faced with this same type of situation in the past, they are generally not experts in math.To help students overcome their fears, they need to understand what math problems are. The first step in under standing math problems is to identify the purpose of every math test. Many tests are designed to help students decide whether they should continue or need more instruction. Many students learn best by being exposed to information in a logical sequence. Therefore, students need to learn to identify the main point of the material they are taking.Students also need to ask themselves questions like, 'What is the main point of this lesson?' and 'How can I learn this material in the shortest amount of time possible?' Each question that students ask will help them find the main idea and how to learn it in the most efficient way possible.Once students have determined the main point of the lesson, they need to try to understand the main point of the problem. It is important to remember that not all math problems are created equal. Some students will need more work than others. However, students need to know the main point of the lesson before they start learning.Another way to help students overcome their fears about math mathematical problems is to use math games that are designed for students that are shy or nervous about math. Games such as Sudoku, crossword puzzles, word searches, and other math games that involve problem solving and research are helpful in easing the student's mind and making them feel comfortable. Doing these types of math activities will not only help students solve math problems, but will also help them become more confident in their ability to solve problems and figure out problems on their own.Students also need to be aware of the kind of materials that they are using to learn math problems. Some students struggle because they need to memorize patterns that they have seen in the past. They may even become afraid that if they repeat a pattern in the wrong way, they will make a mistake. These kinds of materials can actually distract students from their main goal of learning and can make it more difficult to memorize.The key to overcoming math p roblems is to eliminate any and all barriers to learning. Students need to develop an attitude of confidence and self-esteem. By facing their fears, they will develop more confidence and perform better on tests.