Why It's Hard to Learn Math
Having a difficult time with your math courses this year? Whether it's elementary math, high school math courses like algebra or calculus, or even college level math courses, Math-Is-Tough! And staying on track and on top of it all can be challenging at different points in the year or based on how your mind works.
That's why the #1 Rule is to not fall behind! Catching up is brutal and can become impossible. I know one student who started struggling in 8th grade and despite recommendations by several people for her parents to help or get her help, no one did anything. By 9th grade she'd given up - and not only were her math courses in the toilet, other courses were dropping steadily as well. She'd gotten discouraged, tired, fed up and then gave up.
Quickly
following Rule #1 is to ask for or get help from somewhere. Even if
your first effort for assistance isn't the best option in the end, it's a
start. And maybe that first contact or person can lead you to someone
that's better and can assist you in overcoming the stumbling blocks you
are currently having. Parents usually love to help but some just can't
help in math. It's not their strong suit and they don't have the
ability to be really effective beyond the basics. I'm certainly one of
those people! Elementary math is a no brainer, but when you get beyond
that - nope, I'll take a pass! But I will definitely help and find
resources that can make a difference such as here. We have to know our limits and where we can help the best.
Coming in at Rule #3 is patience. Yes, patience, a favorite word of kids and teens the world over! Actually, even adults struggle with it at times. Math courses are going to take some time and regular, repeatable effort to excel in. Slow and steady wins the math subjects race. By staying on top of it each week, it doesn't become overwhelming or that difficult. If you find a section or topic is not clear, check out what we already said in rules #1 and #2 above. Understand that there will be times when it will be difficult or overwhelming but with a little patience, you've got this!
And
finally - Rule #4 - Math is a long game! While the subjects and
material change each year, you will be taking math for the majority if
not all of your years in school. So honestly, get used to it. You and
the subject are stuck together. Make the best of it. If that's not easy
to do, remember that math is a course you can and will use
post-school. Not all of it, in fact maybe not most of it. It teaches
you how to analyze, determine and figure out all sorts of real life
problems.
So
take these 4 Rules and remember them. It'll help you make it through
any difficulties and end up with results in school that you'll be proud
of.