Are your students Maths Anxious? What to do about it...

In the Sydney Morning Herald on 29 July, Sarah Buckley writes "Relax, there’s nothing to fear in mathematics but fear itself"

 

Students suffer maths anxiety because they highly value mathematics as a disciple, but have little control over. The problem with maths anxiety is that it is a cause of declining mathematical performance.

 

paradoxically, it is socially acceptable, even desirable , to show a lack of interest or ability in maths

 

The solution for students suffering from Maths anxiety is to give them a sense of control over their understanding.

• Student achievement will reduce anxiety and lead to further achievement - students need to directly see that they have achieved a level of understanding and that it is not basic understanding. We should focus on progress rather than simply the final score on a summarise test.


• Students having a safe environment where other students will not judge them for mistakes will also be beneficial.


• Giving students worked examples that they can follow or hints along the way (either to all students or without other students knowing) could be helpful.


• Students preparation before a lesson through KhanAcademy for example or pre-reading will help to give them confidence when starting a lesson. Possibly even prepping a student tact you will ask them a specific question can help them to develop confidence.

Do you have any other ideas of how to minimise maths anxiety?

 

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