Math in the Back to School Season: How to Start Strong and Stay Ahead

Back-to-school season is just around the corner, and students with their parents are preparing for the whole new academic year. Students are pretty excited about going back to school, meeting their old friends again, and learning new subjects. On the other hand, just the word “math” gives many of them some form of anxiety. Students can get off to a good start at the beginning of the year and carry the momentum through the remainder of the term if they go into math class with a well-planned strategy and a few tips up their sleeve.

Understanding the Importance of Math

Mathematics is the subject that builds step by step on previously acquired knowledge; hence, the grounds should be solid from the very beginning. A sound knowledge of mathematics enriches the art of problem solving and develops critical thinking, reasoning, and analysis. Additionally, mathematics remains one of the most significant requirements in the STEM fields. Therefore, gaining sound command over mathematics would considerably help in future career opportunities.

Preparation is Everything

To be successful at math, one needs to be prepared. Here are a few things students can do to be prepared prior to the beginning of the school year:

1. Review previous material: Reviewing last year’s math will make the transition into new material easier. Identify your weak spots in math and do some work reinforcing those skills.

1. Know the curriculum: Secure a maths curriculum or syllabus for the following year and go through to know what the topics would be. This will give you the knowledge of what it is you will expect and prep for accordingly.

Staying ahead strategies

How to overcome math difficulties at school Once the school year begins, the following can keep them on top of the math game: 

1. Set a study routine: Allocate specific time daily for reviewing and practicing math concepts. Regular practice consolidates learning and builds confidence. Encourage them to do homework assignments and practice problems regularly.

1. Ask for help when necessary: Never set pride aside and ask for assistance whenever something doesn’t make sense. Seek help from teachers, classmates, or tutors.

1. Utilize online resources: Avail of the free websites such as Khan Academy, Mathway, IXL, and others for additional learning and practice exercises.

1. Join a study group/tutoring: You can work with your classmates in a development group that provides peer-to-peer learning and support.

1. Plan ahead: Use a planner or digital calendar to stay on top of assignments, deadlines, and test dates.

1. Know the battle won with small incremental gains: Participation of small incremental gains while maintaining interest and motivation.

Tips for Parents

The parent is also very instrumental in support for math education for their child. Some added tips that will help to get your child off on the right foot and keep them ahead are as follows:

1. Communicate with teachers: Relate to your child’s math teacher to learn his or her progress and state of problem areas.

1. Grow Growth Mindset: Inspire a growth mindset in your child through showing that mathematics abilities can be developed through effort and practice.

1. Provide a conducive study environment: Provide a quiet, distraction-free study area that helps improve focus and productivity.

1. Monitor progress: Check in regularly with your child on assignments, grades, and progress reports so you can know exactly where your child may need some reinforcement.

Conclusion

Math can be one of the toughest subjects, but if done correctly and with the right strategies, students can get off to a great start and stay ahead. Review of previous material, familiarization with the curriculum, and the establishment of a study routine will help students set themselves up for success. The more help they get when it is needed, consistent practice, and use of internet resources keeps the students on track. From the parent’s side, communication with teachers, instilling a growth mindset in children, and providing the right kind of study environment can also contribute toward math success for your child. Through teamwork between students and parents, math becomes manageable even enjoyable that should lead to a very successful academic year.