How To Boost The Confidence Of Your Maths Students
We want our pupils to feel confident when they think about maths, but unfortunately this is not always the case. If you are looking for ways to improve the confidence of your pupils then here are ten ideas to get you started.
Passion
Have you ever met someone who is truly dedicated to their specialist subject? It is hard not to get swept up by their natural enthusiasm. As a teacher who is in love with maths, let it shine. Many pupils grow in confidence when their teacher is an enthusiastic mathematician.
Maths Myths
There are lots of common Maths Myths which can damage confidence and hold pupils back. One frequently heard myth is that there are two types of people – those who can do maths and those that can’t. The opposite is true - Maths is a learned skill that everyone can get better at with a bit of practice. Make sure you actively challenge Maths Myths in your classroom. Read about other common Maths Myths on the National Numeracy website.
Valuing Mistakes and Developing a Growth Mindset
Turn your classroom into a place where mistakes are valued. If children aren’t afraid of making mistakes, then this boosts their confidence and improves their ability to learn Mathematics.
This article on the NCETM website explores how valuing mistakes can help pupils to develop a Growth Mindset.
Praise
It makes sense that praising your pupils can improve their confidence. But have you thought about how to make your praise effective? The Mr Barton Maths Website has links to research papers on Praise. Top Tips: Make the praise sincere, and praise what the child has done, rather than their inherent ability.
Being Collaborative
Another common Maths Myth is that the best mathematicians work alone. The opposite is true - working collaboratively is a great way to boost confidence. The NRICH website has a whole section on the benefits of working collaboratively as well as lots of great mathematical activities to make this happen.
Real Life Examples
“Why am I learning this, I’ll never need it!” Lots of pupils can’t see the relevance of maths, and this can lead to frustration and disengagement. Using real life examples can help bring maths alive and make it seem more relevant. Introduce your pupils to exciting maths careers and everyday uses of maths. For pupils who already know what they want to do, explore how maths will help them in their chosen career.
Problem Solving
Helping your pupils to become great problem solvers will give them confidence to tackle unfamiliar questions. You could even encourage your school to become an accredited Problem Solving School, (administered by NRICH).
Learn about Maths Anxiety
Maths Anxiety is thought to affect around 30% of the population in the UK. Take the time to learn about this common condition and how it is affecting the confidence of some of your pupils. Read more about what can be done about Maths Anxiety in this article.
Maths Role Models
Meeting a role model who is successfully using maths in their chosen career can be life changing. Lots of pupils can really benefit from meeting role models who can inspire them to see the relevance of maths or to take it further. Try and connect with organisations like Maths4Girls who can introduce your pupils to positive maths role models.
Working One to One
Working one to one with a pupil can give them a real confidence boost. There are often brief opportunities to explain concepts on a one to one basis within the classroom. Your school may also offer intervention sessions or extracurricular maths clubs where pupils can receive targeted one to one support.
Support from experienced colleagues
One of the great things about teaching is that you are never alone. You will always have experienced colleagues who can give you advice and support. As a new teacher you might be surprised to learn that you can also bring some valuable new ideas to your department. If you find a particular approach works really well then don’t be afraid to share it with your colleagues.
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