I’ve loved James Tanton’s How to Be a Math Genius videos for years. He offers great problem-solving tips like:
- Visualize: think of a picture.
- Use common sense to avoid grungy work.
- Engage in intellectual play.
- Think relationally: understanding trumps memorization.
- Be clear on what you don’t know — and comfortable enough to admit it.
Seriously, those are wonderful videos. If you haven’t seen them before, go check them out. Be sure to come back, though, because I’ve just heard some great news.
Natural Problem-Solving Skills
Tanton has joined up with the NaturalMath.com team of Maria Droujkova, Yelena McManaman, and Ever Salazar to put together a book for parents, teachers, math circle leaders, and anyone else who works with children ages 3–10.
It’s called Avoid Hard Work, and it takes a playful look at ten powerful problem-solving techniques.
Join the Crowdfunding Campaign
For more details about Avoid Hard Work, including a 7-page pdf sample with tips and puzzles to enjoy, check out the crowdfunding page at Natural Math:
Read the questions and answers. Try the activities with your children. And donate to support playful math education!
I loved this post, I have never heard of this particular author before but his ideas seem awesome. I know I like to avoid hard work whenever possible. 😉 I am becoming a math teacher so I will have to keep this in mind. Thank you for the share!
If you’re just starting out as a math teacher, Ashley, you couldn’t ask for a better mentor than Tanton. Check out his website for plenty of topical videos and other support, and try out his free G’Day Math courses for yourself.