Do elementary school teachers dread teaching certain math topics? Why might this be? How can this challenge be met? Continue reading to discover challenges and solutions for those teaching K-5 math.
#1 – Observations
Observations made are based on grades k – 5 math.
During my visits with teachers in their classrooms I am always impressed with the creative bulletin boards, classroom arrangement, and organization of materials to meet the needs of all their diverse students. They love their students and the students love them back. I also commend their incredible ability to manage the classroom. Not only do I recognize their daytime commitment, but the extra after-school hours they spend preparing for the next day or following up with parents and guardians in response to concerns for their child. Resources? It would be unlikely to find a dedicated teacher who has not used money out of their own pocket to purchase additional resources just to make class special.
Furthermore, my experience working in elementary public schools provided great insights into what worked well and what appeared to be challenging subjects for teachers. Reading intervention programs within the special education and general classrooms appeared to be a significant strength. Continuing education credits for strengthening this subject also appeared in abundance.
On the other hand, math appeared to be the weakest link. Though teachers appeared quite confident in reading and most other topics, I observed their anxiety in teaching math content, especially fractions. A couple of them even admitted that they did not like teaching math. A sense of sadness filled me, as I love teaching math. I also felt sorry for the teachers who were struggling with this subject.
#2 – Challenges Elementary Teachers Face: Why Math Instruction?
The reasons elementary math teachers experience challenges will be described below.
A. Weak Math Background
Some teachers may remember their struggle with math in elementary school. If elementary math content remained challenging, high school math may also have been challenging. It would not be unusual for these challenges to influence attitudes toward math in general.
Compound previous negative math experience with college academics requiring specific math courses such as College Algebra. For those who experienced struggles with math in lower grades, College Algebra is a student’s worst nightmare. With grit and significant hours of tutoring, they pass!
Furthermore, while working at a community college tutoring Algebra, it was not unusual to hear the following student comments:
“Why do I have to do this? My career will not require me to find x, so why do it now?”
“I want to teach students in elementary school. Why do I have to solve this quadratic equation?”
“Fractions have always been difficult for me. I just use my TI-84 calculator.”
Students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education are likely to encounter more math-related courses such as “Math for Elementary School Teachers.” Such courses will include a review of math concepts covered in elementary math. Others may provide guidance on how to teach various math content.
Let’s face it. At some point in our educational journey we all have encountered a required class or course we were less than motivated to study for. I had one such class. I could not relate to the subject matter. The assignments were a struggle to complete. By some miracle, I passed.
B. Math Anxiety
There are truly some elementary school teachers who experience math anxiety not only in their past but also in their classrooms. New teachers in particular desire to express confidence in everything. On the other hand, they may freeze up when encountering math concepts that appear difficult to convey to their students. They may also fear that their students may pick up on this anxiety
C. Frequent Math Curriculum Changes
In addition, a change in the math curriculum may also increase challenges. Teachers adapt to one curriculum and then have to adapt to another. This is challenging for both teachers and students.
When providing updates in the curriculum, it is ideal that teacher plans are easy to follow and include more illustrations and examples that can quickly be shared with students. It is also ideal that the curriculum includes supplemental workbooks that address all types of learners. The curriculum should also include easy-to-understand videos that clearly explain concepts and use multiple examples.
The more user-friendly and easy use of the material, the more likely all teachers will excel in sharing it with students. In the end, this will increase students’ ability to learn.
D. Multiple Subjects and K-5 Math
Elementary school teachers teach not only math but many other different subjects. Some students in the classroom may have students with special needs who require more assistance from the teacher. This is quite a juggling act.
Let’s imagine a teacher has the option to prepare a really fun and engaging lesson plan for a favorite subject. On the other hand, a lesson plan is needed for a less-than-interesting and more complex math concept. There is only time to do one. Due to time constraints, which one will get done?
#3 – If You Are an Elementary Teacher in K-5 …
Words of Wisdom
Ask for help.
I have yet to meet someone who knows everything.
First, check in with other teachers teaching the same grade and subject. You will find ideas and resources that they will be willing to share. Resources may include manipulatives, materials, videos, and other resources.
Depending on the setting, some teachers may provide co-teaching opportunities in which you are both in the same classroom. As one teacher delivers the lesson, you may circulate the room, assisting students.
When teaching Algebra, I was grateful to eat lunch with other math teachers teaching Algebra. It was a great time to exchange ideas. It was also encouraging to know that some of the challenges they experienced in their classrooms were similar to mine.
Second, ask other teachers about continuing education opportunities to support challenging math topics.
Third, check with others working with students in your classroom. Occupational therapists provide great insights for students with visual perceptual and handwriting challenges that may impact student performance in the classroom in all subjects. Check with special education teachers for specific strategies for teaching various concepts. Consult with Speech and Language specialists to utilize special interventions for students with communication and other learning challenges.
Fourth, if given the opportunity, attend an NCTM conference, https://www.nctm.org/annualmeeting/
There is nothing like learning from people who love math! Inspirational! Informational! Motivating! Creative! Furthermore, if you like to shop, you will love visiting math vendors while discovering great supplements for teaching math. I strongly encourage you to attend whether you love math, or want to learn more. Who knows? You might find you like math more than you thought!
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