Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Gestural Mathematics

I really liked what Perry had to point out about complimentary gestures when teaching mathematics. I can really relate to what is being said as I'm more of a visual learner. It's true that most children are visual learners, so when one adds gestures to what they're trying to explain the children can grasp that concept easily. I think it's safe to say that Mathematics is not really an easy subject to understand. So, for children at that age they really need visuals to help them understand what to do. I thought that was done quite well and creatively when it was explained about covering the number that needed to be subtracted!Children learn easily when they can do a hands on experience. In this case, when they are able to cover the number to subtract they understand what to do and chances are they get the problem right!Of course it's one thing to "show" what needs to be done, but it's another thing to actually go through the steps visually. Showing children the follow through makes the concept more concrete in their mind. That way, when they have to recall how to do a similar problem, they have no troubles because they remember visually what to do.I really do like Perry's style of teaching. Naturally no children like to just sit in their seats and listen to a lecture from the teacher. They want to be able to interact, get their minds going, be more energetic! I really think they do that well by being all over the classroom. This way the student is constantly moving around to focus on the teacher (less chances of falling asleep)! Also constantly asking questions is a great idea since that really keeps the student's mind going continuously. That's what is needed afterall for proper learning. The mind needs to be constantly awake and thinking at the speed of light! A dull mind is such a terrible waste!So, Perry, I think you're doing a great job in keeping your students on their toes and excited about your class! Good on you!Here's Perry's blog link do check it out! http://educationwonk.blogspot.com/2006/02/math-monday-hand-waving-boosts.html

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