A new approach to teaching math

The revolutionary approach Singapore has taken to teaching math will be a good model to adopt in Jamaica, according to Nadine Molloy-Young, president of the Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA).

The model, which has been adopted by countries around the world, saw Singapore reducing math content by 30 per cent by focusing more on problem solving skills and teaching math creatively while incorporating technology.

"Math must make you think logically," said Molloy-Young at the Butterkist workshop for primary school math teachers held at the St Andrew Parish Church Hall yesterday.

Congratulating Butterkist for putting on the workshop, she said teachers and administrators welcomed the intervention, which was meaningful.

The JTA president encouraged teachers to accept whatever help they got and not to be afraid to let someone else into their classroom. She also urged them to allow data to guide them in their efforts to produce better results.

excited and energised

"Teachers must get excited and energised about the things they do," she emphasised.

Elaine Raulston, education director in the Ministry of Education, also encouraged the teachers to get positive about math, which would, in turn, get positive responses from students.

Raymond Simmonds conducted the workshop which had active participation from the teachers. He focused on decimals and statistics, considered two of the more challenging components of the curriculum.

Another workshop will be held on April 15 at the Morant Bay Parish Church hall, St Thomas.

Since 1992, Butterkist has also been sponsoring the National Primary School Math Competition, which will be held this year on May 12 at centres across Jamaica.