Augmenting Your Child's Mathematics Skill

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 Mathematics (abbreviated to Maths) is a fundamental subject that plays a pivotal role in children's future academic and professional success. However, for many children, Maths can be a daunting and challenging subject, often leading to frustration and disappointment. Despite its importance, Maths is a subject that many struggle to understand, it is not uncommon for students to feel overwhelmed by complex concepts and formulae. Nevertheless, with the right approach and support, children can master Maths and excel in this critical subject.

Why is Maths difficult for many children across the world? One of the primary reasons Maths is difficult for many children is the abstract nature of mathematical concepts. Maths requires children to think logically and reason abstractly, which can be a challenge for many young minds. Additionally, Maths builds upon previously learned concepts, so if a child struggles to understand a particular concept, it can create a ripple effect, making it challenging to grasp subsequent concepts. Furthermore, Maths' anxiety and a lack of confidence can also hinder a child's ability to learn and understand Maths. To master Maths, children need to develop a strong foundation in basic mathematical concepts, such as numbers, shapes, and patterns. Parent and teachers can support children by providing a nurturing environment that encourages exploration and learning. For example, incorporating Maths into daily activities, such as measuring ingredients while cooking or calculating change after buying or selling something, can help children see the practical applications of Maths and make it more engaging and interactive. Practice is also essential; and children should be encouraged to practise Maths concepts, solve Maths problems and review past examination questions, to build their Maths skills.

There are several strategies that parents and educators can use to support children in mastering Maths. One effective approach is to use real-world examples and applications to illustrate mathematical concepts, making it more relatable and interesting. For example, using real-world scenarios to demonstrate fractions, such as measuring ingredients for a recipe, can help children understand the concept more easily. Additionally, providing feedback that is constructive and specific can help children identify areas where they need improvement and build their confidence. 

In Singapore, Maths education is highly given a premium, and the country consistently ranks among the top performers in international Maths assessments. Singaporean Maths education emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration, which helps children develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. In Finland, Maths education focuses on conceptual understanding, and children are encouraged to explore and discover mathematical concepts through hands-on activities and real-world applications. To pass Maths examinations with flying colours, children need to develop effective study habits, such as regular practices, reviewing notes, revisions of the curriculum, seeking help from others where necessary. Children should go through past examination question papers and try to solve them. Children must ensure that they understand some topics or concepts in their curriculum more than other topics. This means that any question from those topics that they have mastered shall be answered correctly. If those questions are part of the main paper, the better for the children. If there are 20 topics in Maths curriculum, for example, the child should endeavour to study and thorouthly understand at least 13 of them. No child should go into any examination without mastery of some topics in the curriculum. If the child scores about 50% from those topics that he/ she understands thoroughly and gets another 20% from other ones, that brings the total marks to 70%. This method applies to all subjects that the child sits for in any examination. Parents and caregivers can also support children by providing resources, such as study guides and online tutorials, and encouraging them to stay motivated and focused. Besides, teaching children test-taking strategies, such as pre-examination tests (it is required to be set exactly like the awaited examination), time management, reading through answer scripts, and thoroughly correcting all mistakes, can help them perform better in any examination. 

Citizens and students of the following countries are highly skilled in Maths:

* East Asian countries:

1. Singapore: Singapore is known for its highly structured curriculum and emphasis on conceptual understanding. It consistently ranks among the top performers in international Maths assessments.

2. South Korea: Her intensive and unflinching academic culture and strong emphasis on mathematical excellence contributed to its rankings in TIMSS and PISA Maths tests.

3. Japan: Japan's logical and systematic approach to teaching Maths, focusing on understanding mathematical principles, leads to excellent performance in Maths and problem-solving.

4. Hong Kong: Hong Kong's culture of high academic achievement, parenting involvement in education, and focus on problem-solving skills contributed to its top ranking in Maths in the world 

* European countries:

1. Finland: The Finland's student-focused approach, highly qualified teachers, and equity in education contributed to its exceptional performance in Maths. 

2. Switzerland: Switzerland's strong foundation in basic skills and exploration of advanced mathematical concepts led to excellent Maths performance.

3. The Netherlands: The Netherlands' focus on Maths education and cognitive skills development led to its excellent performance in international Maths assessments. 

* Others:

1. Canada: Canada's strong education system and emphasis on cognitive skills contributed to its high rankings in Maths.

The above countries' success stories in Maths education can be attributed to various factors, including:

1. Rigorous curriculum and teaching methods 

2. Cultural emphasis on Maths education 

3. Supportive learning environment 

4. Effective use of technology 

 In conclusion, Maths is a challenging subject that requires patience, persistence, and regular practices. By understanding the reasons Maths is difficult for many children across the world and providing the right support and resources, parents, caregivers, and educators can help children master Maths and excel in this critical subject. With the right approach, children can develop a strong foundation  in Maths, build their confidence, and pass Maths in examinations with flying colours. By augmenting your children's Maths skills, you can make them successful in academics and beyond, opening doors to a world of opportunities and possibilities.

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