How would one read English or a History or a Science book? Mostly, reading from line to line and memorize all given factual data. Now imagine the book is replaced with a Math book. Will it be read the same way? The answer differs as Math is more than just compilation of facts.
Previous knowledge
Any topic will require the application of previously learnt concepts/formulae/theorems, besides the new ones that are introduced in the chapter. Generally, the objective of the chapter is mentioned in the Introduction part at the beginning.
Example:
Chapter: Percents
Prerequisites: Fractions, decimals
Chapter: Volume
Prerequisites: Area and perimeter of polygons
Concept building
It is always better to understand the concept before straightaway moving to problems.
The concept ’ problems path proves beneficial in the long run compared to the problems ’ concept path.
While the concept is discussed in the chapter, it is always a good habit to write down any important formulae or fact explained. Generally, each concept is followed by an example to show its application. Write the steps along with the book and practice it.
Example:
Chapter: Area of circle
Area = À • radius² [Formula – to be noted]
Value of À = 22/7 or 3.1412....... [Fact – to be noted]
Problem: Find the area of a circle whose diameter is 20 cm.
Solution: Radius = (diameter)/2 [Previous knowledge] Radius = 10 cm
The above problem may be practised after going through it verbally once. Writing always helps in retention.
Formula sheet
A good practice is to maintain a formula sheet. Chapter-wise, add new formulae to the sheet. By the time the book is completed, all the formulae of the book will be there at one place as a ready reckoner. The use of formula sheet is two-fold:
l ready reckoner
l every now and then, keep going through them so as to commit them to memory for life
Seeking assistance
At times, it may happen that a particular topic has a concept that one cannot understand. It always best to seek assistance immediately. Searching for the topic in other textual resources is one way. The other is to seek personal help.
Caveat: Do not leave the topic for future as more often than not the topic will ever be revisited or completely forgotten. It is always better to clarify doubts as and when they arrive rather than accumulating them.
Cumulative method
Many times it so happens that a topic will require going through certain concepts learnt earlier. Always go back to the specific topic, review it completely and then restart with the present topic.
Example:
Chapter: Quadratic equations
Method: By factorization
In case of doubts, go back to factorization of polynomials and practice a few problems before attempting to find the solution of a quadratic equation using factorization.
Practice Exercise
Once the concept is learnt well, examples practised, and formula sheet updated, start with the back exercises. Avoid mental solutions. Rather write each step for all the problems while practising.
The above mentioned sequence of steps is one of the sequences and generally yields excellent results. One may vary the sequence; have certain addition and deletions to the sequence. The primary objective is to have an appropriate and disciplined manner of reading a Mathematics book for understanding the concepts and their applications best.
At Online Home Tutors we do not just tutor, we mentor our students. Students and Parents can make the most of our free online Math tutorials and free Math worksheets – abundant resources we have created for our students to excel and succeed in Math and English.
Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Homeschooling Articles Via RSS!
