My Favourite Math Analogy
When will we ever have to use this math in real life?
I have heard this phrase, countless times as an educator. Especially in my math class. I have spent years as a tutor and a teacher trying to think of the perfect response. Honestly, I used to respond with "I don't know, just do it" and tried desperately not to roll my eyes.
I am glad to report I have evolved from that line of thought. Please try to follow my analogy.
In the midst of a pandemic, we are forced to exercise at home, as our gyms are all closed.
We don't think twice about exercising, for most it is part of a daily lifestyle. We often find ourselves in uncomfortable poses and red faces.
When are we ever going to use these poses in real life? When will we ever have to do a tricep extension 15 times in a row?
The answer is - probably never. And we all know that, despite this we push forward to improve endurance and strength!
We do this because we know that this strength that we build is useful in order to make our daily tasks simpler.
It can help us bring groceries in faster and push a full shopping cart with ease
Well my friends- Math is the same!
We may never have to practice long division "in real life" but the skills that are required and the practice that is necessary is an exercise for your brain!
Practicing new challenging programs builds new neural connections in our brain. Just like exercise builds muscles!
These neural connections help you tackle day to day tasks with ease!
It is absolutely imperative to push forward and challenge yourself to keep learning. Even during trying times such as these. Refer to my other post "Math at Home" so that you can keep up with your skills!
I have heard this phrase, countless times as an educator. Especially in my math class. I have spent years as a tutor and a teacher trying to think of the perfect response. Honestly, I used to respond with "I don't know, just do it" and tried desperately not to roll my eyes.
I am glad to report I have evolved from that line of thought. Please try to follow my analogy.
In the midst of a pandemic, we are forced to exercise at home, as our gyms are all closed.
We don't think twice about exercising, for most it is part of a daily lifestyle. We often find ourselves in uncomfortable poses and red faces.
When are we ever going to use these poses in real life? When will we ever have to do a tricep extension 15 times in a row?
The answer is - probably never. And we all know that, despite this we push forward to improve endurance and strength!
We do this because we know that this strength that we build is useful in order to make our daily tasks simpler.
It can help us bring groceries in faster and push a full shopping cart with ease Well my friends- Math is the same!
We may never have to practice long division "in real life" but the skills that are required and the practice that is necessary is an exercise for your brain!
Practicing new challenging programs builds new neural connections in our brain. Just like exercise builds muscles!
These neural connections help you tackle day to day tasks with ease!
It is absolutely imperative to push forward and challenge yourself to keep learning. Even during trying times such as these. Refer to my other post "Math at Home" so that you can keep up with your skills!
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