Galileo Galilei – “Mathematics is the language with which God has written the Universe”
The Universal Language of Mathematics
Mathematics is often perceived as a daunting subject, shrouded in mystery and fear. However, I firmly believe that Mathematics is much more than a series of numbers and equations. It is a language with its own nuances and identity, universally recognized and understood. The fear of Mathematics often stems from the unknown, but I challenge this notion wholeheartedly. In my experience, success in Mathematics is 90% self-confidence and 10% ability. When learners are constantly told they can succeed, and they start to believe it, their performance in Mathematics improves significantly.
Overcoming Negative Perceptions
One of the biggest obstacles learners face is the negative perceptions surrounding Mathematics, often perpetuated by parents, siblings, or peers. It is common to hear students say, “My parents don’t understand what we are doing, so how can I?” This negative attitude significantly impacts how children perceive their own abilities in Mathematics. To counteract this, I strive to instill a passion for the subject in my students, replacing negative self-talk with positive reinforcement. When students learn to love Mathematics, they are no longer afraid of it.
Encouraging Inquiry and Understanding
A key strategy to reduce the fear of Mathematics is to encourage questions. The more students question, prod, and poke at problems, the more they can understand. I teach my students that there is not just one prescribed method to solve a problem. Just because a teacher uses a particular method does not mean it is the only valid one. I encourage my learners to understand the concepts behind the work, rather than just memorizing a series of steps to get to a solution. If a student can logically find a way to the correct answer, I am eager to discuss their method.
Making Mathematics Fun and Relatable
Many people quickly resort to extra classes to improve their Mathematics skills. While extra classes can be beneficial, I believe the first step should be to reduce the fear of Mathematics and make it fun and understandable. In our classes, we strive to make Mathematics concrete and relatable. We focus on the logic behind the problems, not just the “recipes” for solving them. The Cambridge Curriculum, which we follow, helps in this regard as it is not prescriptive or restricting. We have the flexibility and freedom to delve into the meat of Mathematics, not just the surface.
Quality Over Quantity
We also emphasize the importance of quality answers, not just stock standard responses. Our learners are required to demonstrate a true understanding of the work. I cannot take all the credit for our excellent Mathematics results, as our learners work exceptionally hard. Our Mathematics averages have been steadily rising over the years and are currently at a 77% average for Matric Mathematics. Our last group of Matrics had every Mathematics learner achieving a C symbol (60%) or higher, and we are incredibly proud of each and every one of them.
Celebrating Success and Looking Forward
Our approach to a growth mindset, part of the reason we are an accredited thinking school, is evident across all subject areas. Our A-level (grade 13) learners, on average, achieve more than 90% of their symbols at distinction level (80% or higher), whereas some of the most prominent schools in the country report similar averages in the 30%s. Our alumni excel after leaving school, particularly those who pursue degrees in BSc and Engineering, thanks to the solid foundation provided by Cambridge Maths. One of my former students, now studying in the Netherlands, recently sent me a message to thank me for the foundation in Mathematics he received. Seeing our students flourish gives us the energy and motivation to continue our work.
Marc Bailey
Headmaster of Academics | Deputy Head of MCS Online