Chapter 2

To be an effective Math teacher, I think it is imperative that a teacher understands how children learn math. This can be done through observations and assessments on children to see where the teacher can help and support them. First and foremost, teachers must be willing to learn. She needs to possess a positive attitude, persistent and reflect on her teaching more often than not so that she can further improve. She has to ensure the learning environment best suits learning math and also the appropriate materials made ready for the children to use or manipulate. 

As I went through this chapter, nothing is new to me. As a matter of fact, when I read and reflect back, some of the ideas shared in this chapter are some of the practices that I have been doing in my daily lessons. During Math lesson, I do give children time to problem-solve and make connections. I do encourage children to be active listeners to their peers and share ideas. I also prompt them to further investigate and discuss among their peers. Peer learning to me is another form of a strong tool where children learn better.

All in all, this process does take time and effort. This is something that I would like to work on. Most of the time spent in the classroom is never enough and as teachers it is nothing new that we rush through the lessons.