When my children come home and complete their nightly mathematics homework I usually try to support them with dad jokes.
‘Let’s have sum fun completing these tasks.’
‘Divide and conquer is a good approach to homework kids.’
‘Try and add some positivity to your equations.’
‘Doing more maths multiplies the fun.’
Understandably, I’m usually ejected from the room after repeating the same puns several years running.
As the years progress it can become harder and harder to provide any material support with maths homework and I’m cautious of falling into the trap of negative talk about mathematics. Words were more my thing at school, maths wasn’t a place where success came as easily.
When I’m tired and trying to get dinner on the table I can easily become frustrated and I catch myself saying, ‘I’m no good at math,’ but I’m careful not to pass on that mindset. If I don’t know something, I try to learn alongside my children. Wildly varying levels of success ensue.
Australian mathematics teacher and author Eddie Woo (in this short talk), explains the importance of curiosity in math to help children. It’s about being there on the journey of mathematical discovery and helping with an open mindset.
When my children have struggled with mathematics homework I’ve tried to talk about the learning space. The idea is that going from not knowing something to knowing something can feel frustrating. Dr Becky explains the learning space really succinctly and has helped my children and I try and appreciate the frustration that can occur with learning.
We’ve also adopted an approach of fun towards mathematics by finding cards games and boardgames which have some element of mathematics involved. Sleeping Queens is a card game we whip out at cafes; it’s a sneaky way to practice multiplication without the kids even realising they’re doing math! An idea which came from a fellow parent and follows one of the top ten tips for combating maths anxiety at home.
Mathematics is the language of the universe. Positivity about mathematics can come from finding the beauty in the golden ratio within the nautilus shell.
Or observing the fractal repetitions in the leaf of a fern
Wondering how pi is tied to the ocean and sound waves!
Or finding the joy in completing a home DIY project where measuring twice and cutting once paid off!
This weekend I encourage you to find the joy of mathematics at home. Our wonderful Mathematics department, inspired by one of our teachers Mrs Bala Krishnan, is celebrating International Pi Day by exploring the beauty and mystery of this number.
So, as we celebrate Pi at Kolbe, challenge yourself to notice math in everyday life—whether it’s through a measuring tape in the garage or the swirl of a seashell. Join us in celebrating this wonderful, infinite subject!
Happy International Pi Day!
Peter Jones