The transition period between primary and secondary school is one of the more challenging aspects of formal schooling. The depth and abruptness of the changes can be disorienting for students, but this is especially true for those taking maths.
There can be a bit of a learning curve for new secondary school students since the content is so different. It is also a stressful time in their lives, being thrust into an unfamiliar environment with new peers and teachers to get used to. Fortunately, there are strategies you, as a parent, can employ with your children to make this transition smoother.
1. Familiarise them with the differences
The difference between primary and school maths will be made apparent soon in their lessons. This can give rise to a lot of anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. Do remind your children that secondary school maths is new to everyone and that they aren’t alone in this situation.
At this point, open dialogue about the key differences between their current and past math curriculum is crucial. Understand the topics they’re struggling with and try to bridge those gaps in their knowledge. Remember to remain positive and frame this situation as an opportunity for learning instead.
2. Give them something to work towards
Secondary school is a clean slate for new students. If your child didn’t like maths in the past, they now have the chance to grow to love the subject. As such, students can forge new paths despite whatever past they might have had.
Encourage them to keep an open mind and give them a goal every so often to work towards. It doesn’t have to have anything to do with grades. You could start by having them pick a maths concept they find interesting and allowing them to pursue their interest in that area. Having them do a set number of practice questions is also a great idea. With multiple short-term goals, students are distracted from larger anxieties while keeping their minds active.
3. Get external help
While parents are used to helping their children with math when they’re in primary school, that may not be possible when they reach secondary school. Math concepts in this new phase of your child’s education are often too complicated for even most adults. For instance, topics like geometry, algebraic equations, and inequalities tend to require a refresher course before they can be taught.
In these cases, a math tutor is the most viable solution. If you still have the list of topics your child is struggling with, you can pass it on to them, so they have a clearer idea of how to help your child reach their fullest potential. They are specifically trained to be up to date with the secondary school curriculum and are qualified teachers your children will be comfortable learning from.
Conclusion
The end of primary school and the start of secondary school is confusing for the best of students. When it comes to maths, the subject might as well be worlds apart from what they’re used to. Fortunately, your child doesn’t have to do this alone. Ensure that they’re aware of your unconditional support for them so they know they can come to you with any doubts before it’s too late.
And if you’re looking to provide them with additional help, Colourtrain Academy is the premier math tuition centre in Singapore for you! We provide highly tailored and affordable maths tuition to students so no one gets left behind. Contact us today to learn more.
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