4 Steps to Help You Be Successful in Math Class
By Chad Woods - Faculty
Every year, I have students (and parents) who ask me how to be successful in math class. Math can be a hard subject for students. The math department understands that not everyone will be as passionate as we are about math, but we are here to help you be successful. On behalf of the math department, I would like to give you 4 steps to be successful in your math class.
1. Take pride in taking good notes - In order to take good notes, you must pay attention and be engaged in class. If the teacher is doing a problem, then it is probably a good idea to write down the step-by-step process being done. If we are working a problem too fast for you to write the steps down, then ask us to slow down. I tell my students to "pull back the reigns" when I am going too fast. We get excited about what we are teaching and do not realize we are going too fast. The notes you take are critical to doing homework and studying successfully.
2. Learn how to study math - Studying math is a little different than studying other subjects. Start by going back to your notes and seeing if you can rework the problems we have worked for you in class. Not only should you rework the problem, but you should understand the steps you are taking to arrive at the final solution to the problem. As you are studying, understand the concepts; do NOT memorize facts! This is where most students get stuck on tests. We want you to know how to solve problems, not how to memorize problems. Also as you rework the problems from class, homework and quizzes, know what the question is asking before you begin the problem.
3. Try every problem - Believe it or not, we do not give you problems just brag to other teachers that we gave 45 minutes of homework last night. Each problem is selected carefully to help you understand what type of problems could come up during a test or quiz. Try every problem! Some problems are given to reinforce the skill that was taught that day and some are extensions of what was taught that day (therefore being a little tougher). Even though we did not show you one exactly like the tougher problems, use what you know to see if you can figure it out. Mrs. Atkins has a sign on her board that reads, "Struggle Enhances Learning." Do not be scared to get the wrong answer and have to redo the problem. It is okay. The basketball great Michael Jordan says, "I can accept failure. Everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying."
4. Seek extra help - Finally, don't be scared to reach out for help from your teacher during coach class, students in your class, students who have taken the class before, or even other teachers in our department. If you are in my class and have a good relationship with Mr. Shorey, then reach out to Mr. Shorey for help. I promise I will not be offended. My goal is for you to succeed in my class and know the subject well enough to succeed as you enter the next class. The bottom line is we want you to have a strong foundation throughout your Darlington career and as you enter college. If you have that strong foundation, then you will be successful.
