Throughout high school, I struggled with Mathematics—not due to a lack of potential, but because I lacked the right support. My senior school teacher prioritized high-performing students, leaving those who struggled, like me, to fend for themselves. As a result, I found it difficult to grasp key concepts and felt increasingly discouraged. However, everything changed when I entered university and took Math as a freshman. With the right resources and guidance, I not only understood the subject but excelled—much to the surprise of my father, an Accountant, who had witnessed my earlier struggles.
This experience opened my eyes to a crucial truth: success in Mathematics is not just about natural ability; it’s about building a strong foundation and receiving the encouragement to push forward. It reinforced my belief that teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students’ academic journeys, and with the right support, any student can thrive.
My eldest daughter is the complete opposite of me when it comes to Mathematics—she excels in the subject effortlessly. Her outstanding performance earned her the role of class Math leader, a testament to her passion for numbers and problem-solving. As a parent, watching her thrive has been both enlightening and humbling. I am incredibly proud of her, and my greatest hope is that she will continue to excel and achieve great things in the future.
That is why the recent announcement by the Ministry of Education to remove Mathematics as an optional subject in senior school for students under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is deeply disheartening. Mathematics is a fundamental skill that extends beyond the classroom, playing a crucial role in problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world applications. Eliminating it as an option risks limiting students’ potential and weakening their foundation for future academic and career opportunities.
Rather than making Mathematics optional, I believe we should focus on improving its teaching and learning. Here are a few key strategies to enhance Mathematics performance in schools:
- Foster a Growth Mindset: Create an environment where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process. Encourage students by acknowledging their successes and providing support in areas where they struggle. I personally experienced the power of encouragement when I unexpectedly developed a love for Chemistry. It wasn’t my strongest subject, but after performing well on one occasion, my teacher recognized my achievement. That simple acknowledgment was all the motivation I needed, proving that praise and support can significantly boost a student’s confidence and interest in a subject.
- Encourage Curiosity and Questions: Students should feel safe to ask questions without fear of judgment. As a student, I sometimes hesitated to ask questions, worried that I might appear less knowledgeable. However, curiosity is the foundation of learning. Praising students for their questions not only validates their desire to understand but also builds their confidence and encourages deeper engagement with the subject. When students feel their curiosity is valued, they become more eager to explore, learn, and grow.
- Prioritize Understanding Over Speed: The pressure to complete the syllabus often takes priority over the true objective of each learning strand. However, students have different learning styles and paces, and rushing through topics can hinder deep understanding. We encourage teachers to exercise patience where needed, ensuring that concepts are not just covered but fully grasped and applied. A well-paced, student-centered approach leads to better comprehension, retention, and long-term success.
- Emphasize the Importance of Homework: I am a strong believer in the power of homework. It reinforces classroom learning, allowing students to practice and internalize concepts at their own pace. I have deep gratitude for my daughter’s Math teacher, whose commitment to the subject is evident in the regular assignments given—almost daily. Mathematics, in particular, requires consistent practice, and this repetition plays a crucial role in helping students develop a strong foundation and confidence in problem-solving.
- Connect Learning to Real-Life Experiences: As a mother, I have learned that the most effective lessons come from real-life experiences. People understand and retain information better when they can relate to it. One of the most successful teaching methods I’ve discovered is incorporating my children’s interests into learning. By using real-world scenarios and personal experiences, I create opportunities for deeper understanding and curiosity, making learning both meaningful and enjoyable.
Conclusion
As parents and teachers, it is our responsibility to create a supportive learning environment where children feel encouraged to explore and appreciate Mathematics. By fostering curiosity, providing consistent practice, and integrating real-life experiences, we can help students build confidence and develop a lifelong love for the subject. With the right support, every child has the potential to succeed in Mathematics.