9 answers
sky
Student
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
5
Questions
Updated
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How can I improve in math?
So I just started high school and on all my assignments I've gotten 67,64 and 60. I am kinda freaking out currently because I'm a solid 80 student. I'm in Canada and I'm just kinda stressed and need some words I guess my mom is fine with it she's gonna get me touring. we are moved on now and I think I know what I'm doing but I'm still really scared for midterms. because that unit will be on midterms.
Edit: I GOT A 82 ONMY TEST!!!
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9 answers
Adit Sheth
Senior Software Engineer
134
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adit’s Answer
Feeling a bit overwhelmed when things don't go as planned is absolutely okay, particularly when you're getting used to the rhythm of high school. If math is giving you a hard time, here are some friendly tips to help you out:
Embrace Understanding: Instead of just rushing through your homework, take some time to really grasp the ideas behind the problems. This will not only help you remember better but also apply the knowledge when it's exam time.
Make Practice a Habit: Math is a subject that gets easier the more you practice. Consider working on additional problems related to the topics you find difficult, even if they're not part of your homework. This can boost your confidence.
Don't Be Shy to Ask: If something is unclear, don't hesitate to ask your teacher for a better explanation. Tutors can also provide personalized assistance if you need extra help.
Take a Moment to Breathe: Remember, stumbling a bit at the beginning is perfectly fine. Your mom is there for you, and it seems like you're starting to find your way. Believe in your capacity to get better.
Keep Things Tidy: Before the midterms, go through your work, pay extra attention to the parts you had trouble with, and don't hesitate to ask for help again if necessary. You've got this!
Embrace Understanding: Instead of just rushing through your homework, take some time to really grasp the ideas behind the problems. This will not only help you remember better but also apply the knowledge when it's exam time.
Make Practice a Habit: Math is a subject that gets easier the more you practice. Consider working on additional problems related to the topics you find difficult, even if they're not part of your homework. This can boost your confidence.
Don't Be Shy to Ask: If something is unclear, don't hesitate to ask your teacher for a better explanation. Tutors can also provide personalized assistance if you need extra help.
Take a Moment to Breathe: Remember, stumbling a bit at the beginning is perfectly fine. Your mom is there for you, and it seems like you're starting to find your way. Believe in your capacity to get better.
Keep Things Tidy: Before the midterms, go through your work, pay extra attention to the parts you had trouble with, and don't hesitate to ask for help again if necessary. You've got this!
Your advice was so helpful!
sky
Leah Recchia
Manager- Channel Mgt
16
Answers
Randolph, New Jersey
Updated
Leah’s Answer
Hi Sky,
You are not alone! Math can be extremely intimidating, but try to have an open mind and don't give up. If you say "I'm no good at math, it's not my thing" then it becomes true. Maybe it won't be your favorite subject, but you can still be pretty good at it with a little work.
As some people answered already, it builds upon itself, so try not to move on to the next topic until you understand the one you are working on. Also, I have found that getting a tutor can be extremely helpful. If you sit with someone and get some 1 on 1 assistance, they can see where you are having difficulties and focus in on specific areas. Please try not to feel overwhelmed!
Also, one additional piece of advice - when you go to study math, get rid of all distractions (outside noise, your phone/social media, tv, etc) and have a clear mind.
Best of luck to you!
You are not alone! Math can be extremely intimidating, but try to have an open mind and don't give up. If you say "I'm no good at math, it's not my thing" then it becomes true. Maybe it won't be your favorite subject, but you can still be pretty good at it with a little work.
As some people answered already, it builds upon itself, so try not to move on to the next topic until you understand the one you are working on. Also, I have found that getting a tutor can be extremely helpful. If you sit with someone and get some 1 on 1 assistance, they can see where you are having difficulties and focus in on specific areas. Please try not to feel overwhelmed!
Also, one additional piece of advice - when you go to study math, get rid of all distractions (outside noise, your phone/social media, tv, etc) and have a clear mind.
Best of luck to you!
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
sky
Aleksey Kurdyukov
1
Answer
Updated
Aleksey’s Answer
Before starting any work, read through the chapter and take note of the key sections. Textbooks are written progressively, and understanding the direction the authors are taking can help clarify the bigger picture. When things get difficult, remember to shift to other types of problems. Building "muscle memory" for math takes time and practice, but if you focus too hard on one problem, it can lead to frustration and negative feelings toward the subject. By moving on to other problems, you will gain new insights that will help when you revisit the more challenging ones.
James Hinton
Engineer
2
Answers
Reston, Virginia
Updated
James’s Answer
Math builds upon itself. So understanding one concept will help you understand a future concept.
Thanks for the help.
sky
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Sky,
Math, and especially Algebra, can be challenging! And, not that this is necessarily the case, but, some teachers are better than others at being able to help you "see" and understand math. And, in their defense, trying to teach an entire class when all the students have different learning styles is a bit challenging.
When I was taking some college classes that I just "didn't get," I turned to the internet for help. There were some YouTube tutorials that made the subject (law) much more comprehensible than either the professor or the text books. And if someone manages to make a cute video explaining something like the Pythagorean Theorem or Factoring Polynomials, so much the better! I remember eons ago someone made a song about the parts of a cell, called Reba My Amoeba. You get the idea. It has to be something your brain can easily wrap itself around, something your brain wants to remember!
In math, one skill builds upon the next. So it's important to master this unit!
And, if you are college-bound, facing this hurdle now, rather than having your first low grades in college, is much better. It helps you to truly learn your own personal learning style, which will benefit you for years to come. It might not seem that way now though!
I hope this gives you some ideas you can use.
Kim
Math, and especially Algebra, can be challenging! And, not that this is necessarily the case, but, some teachers are better than others at being able to help you "see" and understand math. And, in their defense, trying to teach an entire class when all the students have different learning styles is a bit challenging.
When I was taking some college classes that I just "didn't get," I turned to the internet for help. There were some YouTube tutorials that made the subject (law) much more comprehensible than either the professor or the text books. And if someone manages to make a cute video explaining something like the Pythagorean Theorem or Factoring Polynomials, so much the better! I remember eons ago someone made a song about the parts of a cell, called Reba My Amoeba. You get the idea. It has to be something your brain can easily wrap itself around, something your brain wants to remember!
In math, one skill builds upon the next. So it's important to master this unit!
And, if you are college-bound, facing this hurdle now, rather than having your first low grades in college, is much better. It helps you to truly learn your own personal learning style, which will benefit you for years to come. It might not seem that way now though!
I hope this gives you some ideas you can use.
Kim
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
sky
You're welcome! I have always been good at test-taking (SAT, ACT, etc). The first test I ever flunked was for US jobs working in the embassies. I honestly didn't expect to pass, as it was extremely difficult. But I never dreamed I would pass all the components, except for English! I was totally deflated!
If you don't get a few low grades, you aren't challenging yourself hard enough. You'll eventually master math. Work on it when you are most refreshed, don't save your math homework for last.
Kim Igleheart
Michael W
Sr. Technical Program Manager
8
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Great question, Sky! I can definitely relate. Math can be hard... and intimidating! I have a friend who would always "turned off" as soon as the subject of math came up. He told himself that he was not good at it and could not do it, and because of that, he believed it. The truth was, he just needed to stay calm and concentrate. I say this because I do not want you to fall into the same trap. Math IS hard but it is definitely something you can concur if you stay committed, concentrated, and try your best. You can do it!
Math is a broad subject. Are you finding certain areas make sense and others do not? I suggest that you block off extra time with classmates or teachers to concentrate on the specific area(s) where you need the most improvement.
Lastly, don't be afraid to ask questions when you don't understand something. That is part of the learning process!
Remember -- you can do it! Best of luck, Sky!
Math is a broad subject. Are you finding certain areas make sense and others do not? I suggest that you block off extra time with classmates or teachers to concentrate on the specific area(s) where you need the most improvement.
Lastly, don't be afraid to ask questions when you don't understand something. That is part of the learning process!
Remember -- you can do it! Best of luck, Sky!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
sky
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6455
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Sky!
Navigating Your Math Challenges and Gearing Up for Midterms
Entering high school can be a considerable shift, particularly when it comes to subjects like math. It's normal for students to see changes in their grades as they adapt to different teaching methods, a heavier workload, and more advanced content. Here's a comprehensive guide on how you can tackle your situation:
1. Evaluate Your Present Performance
You've shared that you've received 67, 64, and 60 on your assignments. These scores suggest that you're currently having difficulties grasping the material. It's crucial to pinpoint specific areas where you're having trouble.
Examine Assignment Feedback: Review the remarks or feedback from your teachers on these assignments. Knowing where you lost marks can help you concentrate your studying.
Pinpoint Difficult Topics: Are there certain concepts or problem types that consistently stump you? Compile a list of these topics.
2. Craft a Study Plan
After identifying the areas you're having trouble with, formulate a structured study plan:
Establish Clear Goals: For instance, aim to enhance your comprehension of one topic each week before midterms.
Allocate Time for Each Topic: Set aside specific time periods each day or week for math study.
Leverage Various Resources: Think about using textbooks, online resources (like Khan Academy), or tutoring services if accessible.
3. Tap into Available Resources
There's a wealth of resources available that can bolster your understanding:
Online Lessons: Sites like Khan Academy provide free tutorials on a variety of math topics.
Study Groups: Creating a study group with classmates can offer support and diverse viewpoints on problem-solving.
Tutoring Services: If feasible, consider tutoring either from teachers after school or at local tutoring centers.
4. Practice Consistently
Math is a subject that demands practice:
Tackle Practice Problems: Use textbooks or online resources to find more problems to solve.
Mimic Exam Conditions: Attempt practice tests under timed conditions to become familiar with the pressure of midterms.
5. Handle Stress and Anxiety
It's natural to feel stressed about midterms; however, managing this stress is key:
Employ Relaxation Techniques: Methods such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness can aid in reducing anxiety.
Stay Organized: Keep tabs on deadlines and exam dates using planners or digital calendars.
6. Engage with Your Teachers
Never hesitate to ask your math teacher for assistance:
Raise Questions in Class: If something isn't clear during lessons, ask questions immediately.
Ask for Extra Help Sessions: Many teachers are open to providing extra help outside of regular class hours.
7. Maintain a Positive Attitude and Reflect on Progress
Lastly, keep a positive outlook:
Celebrate small wins along the journey—every improvement matters!
Reflect on what strategies are proving effective for you and tweak your study plan as needed.
By methodically following these steps, you should be able to rebuild confidence in your math abilities and improve your performance in your upcoming midterms.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Khan Academy
A globally acknowledged educational platform offering free online courses and tutorials across various subjects, including math.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Offers insights into managing stress and anxiety among students through research-based strategies.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)
Provides guidelines and resources aimed at enhancing math education practices for students at all levels.
Likelihood the answer is correct: 95%
Blessings!
JC.
Navigating Your Math Challenges and Gearing Up for Midterms
Entering high school can be a considerable shift, particularly when it comes to subjects like math. It's normal for students to see changes in their grades as they adapt to different teaching methods, a heavier workload, and more advanced content. Here's a comprehensive guide on how you can tackle your situation:
1. Evaluate Your Present Performance
You've shared that you've received 67, 64, and 60 on your assignments. These scores suggest that you're currently having difficulties grasping the material. It's crucial to pinpoint specific areas where you're having trouble.
Examine Assignment Feedback: Review the remarks or feedback from your teachers on these assignments. Knowing where you lost marks can help you concentrate your studying.
Pinpoint Difficult Topics: Are there certain concepts or problem types that consistently stump you? Compile a list of these topics.
2. Craft a Study Plan
After identifying the areas you're having trouble with, formulate a structured study plan:
Establish Clear Goals: For instance, aim to enhance your comprehension of one topic each week before midterms.
Allocate Time for Each Topic: Set aside specific time periods each day or week for math study.
Leverage Various Resources: Think about using textbooks, online resources (like Khan Academy), or tutoring services if accessible.
3. Tap into Available Resources
There's a wealth of resources available that can bolster your understanding:
Online Lessons: Sites like Khan Academy provide free tutorials on a variety of math topics.
Study Groups: Creating a study group with classmates can offer support and diverse viewpoints on problem-solving.
Tutoring Services: If feasible, consider tutoring either from teachers after school or at local tutoring centers.
4. Practice Consistently
Math is a subject that demands practice:
Tackle Practice Problems: Use textbooks or online resources to find more problems to solve.
Mimic Exam Conditions: Attempt practice tests under timed conditions to become familiar with the pressure of midterms.
5. Handle Stress and Anxiety
It's natural to feel stressed about midterms; however, managing this stress is key:
Employ Relaxation Techniques: Methods such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness can aid in reducing anxiety.
Stay Organized: Keep tabs on deadlines and exam dates using planners or digital calendars.
6. Engage with Your Teachers
Never hesitate to ask your math teacher for assistance:
Raise Questions in Class: If something isn't clear during lessons, ask questions immediately.
Ask for Extra Help Sessions: Many teachers are open to providing extra help outside of regular class hours.
7. Maintain a Positive Attitude and Reflect on Progress
Lastly, keep a positive outlook:
Celebrate small wins along the journey—every improvement matters!
Reflect on what strategies are proving effective for you and tweak your study plan as needed.
By methodically following these steps, you should be able to rebuild confidence in your math abilities and improve your performance in your upcoming midterms.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Khan Academy
A globally acknowledged educational platform offering free online courses and tutorials across various subjects, including math.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Offers insights into managing stress and anxiety among students through research-based strategies.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)
Provides guidelines and resources aimed at enhancing math education practices for students at all levels.
Likelihood the answer is correct: 95%
Blessings!
JC.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
sky
THAT IS ALL GOOD, IT IS OUR JOB!
James Constantine Frangos
Jp Lynch
UX Research & Design
2
Answers
Mount Vernon, Washington
Updated
Jp’s Answer
Howdy Sky!
You have a bunch of advice now, so I hope you know we're all rooting for you!
There's one thing I didn't see much of in previous feedback: talking about what Math is and how its taught.
A statistics professor brought this up to me (and the rest of the class) at the beginning of his course, and while we all could come up with EXAMPLES of mathematics -- quadratic equation, regression, etc. -- we were stumped.
Up until he told us, "Mathematics is a language. It's the language of everything that we can't talk to. It's the language of logic. And if I just started throwing sentences at you in Japanese, expecting you to know what I meant and go do something with it, you'd undoubtedly fail and claim the whole thing was impossible too. So we're not doing that. We're going to look at problems - things we can't easily explain or verify, and I'll teach you how to translate them."
Here in the states, what and how Math is taught is strictly enforced according to a, "You should just know what this is, and all the lessons build on each other, so memorize it or else you're stupid," mindset (though I doubt that last part is actually written out anywhere). I suspect there's some overlap in Canada as well. And while, yes, these lessons build on each other over time, if you don't know what they build TO, or whether it's "okay" to go back and try to master something that you never quite mastered in the past, then... anxiety and fear is a legit response.
Personally, I made HUGE progress in that statistics course (and other maths courses that followed) when I changed studying from brute force memorization to what I do for language learning: active translation. The table I'm writing on es una mesa también, agus an mbord, as well as volume of particle wood whose density comes from its mass divided by its volume (h*w*L).
I hope that shift in mindset makes math something clearer to learn & use!
You have a bunch of advice now, so I hope you know we're all rooting for you!
There's one thing I didn't see much of in previous feedback: talking about what Math is and how its taught.
A statistics professor brought this up to me (and the rest of the class) at the beginning of his course, and while we all could come up with EXAMPLES of mathematics -- quadratic equation, regression, etc. -- we were stumped.
Up until he told us, "Mathematics is a language. It's the language of everything that we can't talk to. It's the language of logic. And if I just started throwing sentences at you in Japanese, expecting you to know what I meant and go do something with it, you'd undoubtedly fail and claim the whole thing was impossible too. So we're not doing that. We're going to look at problems - things we can't easily explain or verify, and I'll teach you how to translate them."
Here in the states, what and how Math is taught is strictly enforced according to a, "You should just know what this is, and all the lessons build on each other, so memorize it or else you're stupid," mindset (though I doubt that last part is actually written out anywhere). I suspect there's some overlap in Canada as well. And while, yes, these lessons build on each other over time, if you don't know what they build TO, or whether it's "okay" to go back and try to master something that you never quite mastered in the past, then... anxiety and fear is a legit response.
Personally, I made HUGE progress in that statistics course (and other maths courses that followed) when I changed studying from brute force memorization to what I do for language learning: active translation. The table I'm writing on es una mesa también, agus an mbord, as well as volume of particle wood whose density comes from its mass divided by its volume (h*w*L).
I hope that shift in mindset makes math something clearer to learn & use!
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
sky
Melissa Branovan
Channel Manager
14
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
Focus on one item at a time! Looking at everything can certainly be overwhelming! Focus on each subject and make a plan to improve. Can you set up meeting with your teachers to show that you care and are invested in improving performance? Are you blocking off homework and study time for each? If you have questions are you asking? Study groups?
A plan gives you control of the situation! You've got this!
A plan gives you control of the situation! You've got this!
Thank you for the advice.
sky