Disciplined Studies (Math)
Educating the WholeHearted Child: Chapter 11 (part 2)
Back when I was in elementary through high school, if you had asked me what my least favorite subject was, I would have quickly answered, “Math!” After my days of math class were behind me, however, I realized that it wasn’t really math itself I found distasteful; it was the way it was taught. I thrived on the challenge of math, and because I grasped things quickly, I spent a lot of time waiting for the rest of my class to be ready to move on, which meant I rarely felt challenged. I think if I had been homeschooled and could move at my own pace I would probably have found it one of my favorite subjects.
I actually really like most things about mathematics. I resonated with these reasons Clarksons give for considering a study of math worthwhile:
“Math is empowering–it strengthens logical thinking, which can contribute to real-life problem solving skills.
Math is rewarding–there is a certain feeling of pride and accomplishment in getting the right answers to challenging math problems.
Math is necessary–the bottom line of math study is acquiring abilities that enable us to function successfully and independently in society.
Math is affirming–the beauty, elegance, and exactness of math reflect the nature and faithfulness of God (unchanging) in contrast to the corruption and confusion of sin” (page 206).
I love the sense of order, knowing there’s a definitely right answer, and working my way through whatever I need to do to find that answer. I get a lot of satisfaction out of solving math problems, and I see that same enjoyment in my children, particularly Elijah. I could easily see him wanting to work his way all the way through calculus.
I’ve written a lot in the past about some of my struggles in teaching math to Ian. I want to be sure that I don’t drive him towards a dislike for math simply because I’m not teaching it in a way that works for him. Right now I feel like we’re in a really good place, but I want to stay sensitive to his learning style and needs. I’m not saying he has to love math, but I hope he’ll be able to enjoy it more than I did as a child.
Each Mentoring Monday I share my reflections on what I’ve been learning from my “paper mentors.” I am currently joining in a book discussion of Educating the WholeHearted Child by Clay Clarkson (with Sally Clarkson), so my Monday posts are all being sparked by things I’m reading in this fabulous book!