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Most students aren't fans of math. This could be because of poor previous experience, teachers that didn't explain it well, or simply because it is a more challenging subject. People often think that once you get to the senior years of high school and aren't good at math, you'll never be. However, a good textbook can be a real change. You don't have to love math, but you can always try harder to understand it and get better. Your year 12 mathematics textbook should be your guide. Here are a few tips on how to read the textbook and understand math better.
How to Read a Math Textbook?
Reading a math textbook requires a different approach compared to how students are typically taught to read textbooks in high school or college. In most subjects, students are encouraged to read quickly or skim through the material, even if they come across unfamiliar words. The idea is that they can infer the meaning of those words from the context.
However, this strategy doesn't work well when it comes to math textbooks. Skipping over important concept words or bold-print words will only lead to confusion and hinder your understanding of the material. Reading a math textbook demands more time and concentration compared to other subjects.
Step 1 – Quick Browse Your Textbook
It may sound like a tough task to do, but if you're in your senior year, it's important to be patient. Love for math might not be easy to develop in this part of your education. Quickly go through the assigned reading material to grasp the main topics. Focus on the chapter introduction and section summaries to gain an overview of the content without delving into details. Consider connecting the material to similar math topics you are already familiar with.
Step 2 - Skimming
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If you're in your final year of high school, it's a good idea to invest in a year 12 mathematics textbook (Understanding Year 12 Extension 1 HSC Maths, CambridgeMATHS Stage 6 Mathematics Standard 2 Year 12)
While skimming the chapter, use a pencil to circle any unfamiliar words. If you still don't understand these words after reading, don't hesitate to seek help from your instructor. Skimming should only take around 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 3 – Stay Focused
Concentrate fully on your reading. Highlight important material in the textbook, but avoid excessive highlighting as it may not help in narrowing down the key points for future study. Particularly focus on material covered in both the textbook and lectures, as this is likely to appear in tests. The purpose of highlighting is to emphasize crucial content for later review. Make sure not to skip any reading assignments.
Remember: Reading a math textbook can be challenging, with understanding just one page possibly taking up to half an hour.
Step 4 – Note Down Things
When you encounter examples, carefully go through each step. If any steps are skipped in the example, make sure to note them down for better comprehension. By filling in these skipped steps, you are reinforcing your understanding of the material for improved recall during tests.
Step 5 – Mark What’s Unclear
Identify and mark any concepts or words that are unclear to you. You may have already marked them while skimming. If you now understand them, erase the marks. If not, reread the page to enhance your understanding.
Step 6 – Re-Read If Necessary
If things aren't going smoothly, return to the previous page and carefully re-read the information to maintain a coherent thought process. Look ahead to the next page to see if any additional information provides a clearer explanation of the misunderstood material. Find and review any diagrams, examples, or rules that elucidate the misunderstood material.
Read the misunderstood paragraph(s) aloud multiple times to gain a better understanding of their meaning. Consult your math notes for a more comprehensive explanation of the misunderstood material. Use another year 12 math book, or a computer software program that offers more explanation for the material. You can always seek assistance from your study buddy or teacher.
Step 7 - Reflect
Reflect on the content you have read. Combine your existing knowledge with the new information you have just acquired. Consider how this new knowledge enhances your understanding of mathematics. Prepare questions regarding any confusing information to ask your instructor during the next class session.
Learn Math Like a Foreign Language
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| source: calmatters.org |
In a way it is like a foreign language. Some people thrive with immersion learning, while others prefer a structured and grammatical approach. The same goes for mastering math. Some students will never become huge fans of math, but nonetheless, they must grasp the fundamentals (not only for a good grade, but for future careers as well). If you know that math isn't your strongest feature, take it easy, enroll in less challenging courses, and give yourself time. And remember, practice makes it perfect.
Give a Chance the Math Program Before Buying It
Make sure to test out the high school math program before buying it. If there is no trial or free lessons offered with the high school math curriculum, continue your search for one that does. It's important for both your child and yourself to ensure that the program shows promise. You don't have to adore the math program, but you should view it as a practical method for learning math.
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