Summary
SO, MATHS inadequacies rear their ugly head again (October 28). Pupils say mathematics is "important", but show a decline in simple arithmetic skills from P3 to S2. About 15 years ago, teaching science to S1, I set a task involving division of small numbers by 10, 20, 30, etc. To my horror most of the "mixed-ability" class could not manage even the 10, never mind the others. My attempt to teach science using a simple arithmetic tool was stymied. Yet maths and primary teachers assured me S1 "should" be able to do this. Plus ca change?
Why this decline? Could it be simple lack of repetitive practice in those skills after they are first mastered, because the emphasis switches from good old arithmetic to "real" mathematics? Mathematics is good practice for logic, fun for some, even exciting, but important? Not to the average shopper, man-in-the-street or manual labourer. For years, I have queried this obsession with everyone doing mathematics. Numeracy, yes, arithmetic, yes, but mathematics only according to ability, inclination, necessity and aptitude.See the full content of this document
Extract
Do We Need to Teach Maths so Widely?
Yes, I know about calculators. I once uttered dire threats against an S3 pupil who whipped out his calculator to "calculate my...
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