Mathematics for elementary school educators

Midterm writing assignment #1

A common complaint within the student population is that they do not understand math.  This lack of understanding leads to a dislike of the subject.  A question could be asked, how much of this is based on a person not being capable of learning math vs. how much of this is due to a lack of teaching technique? 

Thinking back to your education up to this point discuss the question posed above as it relates to students.  Along with that, you will discuss which teaching techniques you have observed to be effective?  Which ones are ineffective?  How do you feel you would incorporate what you have learned so far in your path to becoming an educator while teaching math?  How do you think we can lessen or eliminate the stigma that math holds as a subject to be disliked? 

This essay is not a research assignment.  You should be using your own knowledge and experiences as a student.  Teaching techniques do not need to be official techniques, or even have specific names.  This writing assignment was designed to encourage deeper thinking about your own educational philosophy.  You may or may not believe that you have a philosophy, but every grade level, teacher, and class you have taken up to this point has shaped your viewpoint as a student and as a future educator. 

Grading Rubric