Mathematics is problem solving which many find to be fun, challenging and rewarding. Others experience it less positively, lacking confidence and even harbouring a belief that “I’m no good at Maths”. Such a mindset is rarely justified, and often rectifiable. Studying Maths does not have to be a struggle, which I’d like to demonstrate to you.
So understandably Maths can cause anxiety for many pupils. Add in the pressure around exam time and you’ve got a recipe for poor performance.
The transition between GCSE Maths and what comes after is hard too. Maths beyond GCSE is very different and those who thought they were doing well and understood the concepts can begin to find it more challenging and lose confidence.
I believe that Maths teaching needs to be built on understanding and practice, minimising rote learning and building confidence by attempting a wide range of problems so that when it comes to exam time the easier questions are familiar and doable and you have problem solving strategies in place for the more challenging questions.
So why come to me for help?
I’ll work to understand where you are in your learning, and we will start from there.
Each lesson will be individual and tailored to your needs using methods and strategies appropriate for you.
I’ll use methods which are applicable in multiple problems – not a different method for each topic / question.
I’ll focus on the method required to solve a problem and not on the answer (a correct answer does not necessarily demonstrate mastery).
I’ll help you build confidence in your abilities as we proceed – almost every student knows more and can do more than they think; it’s having the confidence to try and to get things wrong on the way.
I’ll provide all necessary learning resources where necessary. But please bring your own pens, pencils and calculators!
Use of calculators – it’s often assumed you know how to do this but it is dependent on the calculator you are using and particularly for the more complex functions this needs to be taught – I will do this.
Finally – it’s all about building a relationship and trust.