Math drills are still a big part of elementary math class. Are excessive math drills working?
Math is a dreaded subject for many students. Today, as I taught grade 2 and had to give them 4 pages of addition and subtraction questions, you heard the class sigh. There was approximately 100 questions for the students to answer in 40 minutes and the rest was for homework.
It is important for students to know simple calculations and rote is one way for students to learn the concept but often students will begin to detest math because of the constant repetition. Students need math but it should be used in real life situations for them to understand the concept.
After giving the math, I saw all of these lost faces who understood the concept with a concrete problem but became confused with the abstract problem. As well, some of the children saw the enormous amount of work and just shut down; by twirling hair, tapping pencils, or looking busy when I came by.
As well, students would say it was too difficult when they were at the desk but were able to solve the equations on the carpet with no prompting. My math teacher in teacher's college said a child can demonstrate their knowledge in 4 questions, more is a waste of time for the student who understands and frustrating for the one who does not.
Rote has its place but 4 pages is not a beneficial way for students to learn, rather they become robots with answers but may not truly understand the concept outside the parameters given.
