Learning to Learn 

Building a Culture for Success in Mathematics

Over the first three weeks of school, students at MPS engaged in a “Learning to Learn” program, focused on establishing classroom routines, building a positive classroom culture, and equipping students with the essential skills and knowledge they need for a successful year. This year, we aimed to strengthen this focus within the context of Mathematics. Our approach emphasised two main areas of growth:

1. Fostering a Positive Mathematics Culture

Our learning program aimed to create a positive culture in Mathematics. Students explored the concept of a growth mindset and the power of "yet." We encouraged students to reframe their language—shifting from “I’m not confident with multiplication facts” to “I’m not confident with multiplication facts yet.”

We also highlighted the range of skills that contribute to success in Mathematics. While some students may not excel at quickly recalling number facts yet, they may possess strengths such as flexible thinking, problem-solving skills, or persistence in working through challenges. By emphasising that mistakes are an essential part of the learning process, and that speed is only one way to succeed, we strive to cultivate an environment where students value taking risks and pushing themselves. This approach encourages students to recognise and embrace their individual strengths while appreciating diverse learning styles.

2. Developing Problem-Solving Skills

The second focus of our program was on problem-solving. Using our school’s problem-solving strategies, students learned specific steps to apply when approaching math problems. Throughout this process, we emphasised the skills students were developing, such as persistence, patience, and flexible thinking. Students were encouraged to see the struggle they may feel during challenging tasks as an opportunity for growth, and we supported them in understanding that patience, self-talk, and accepting failure are all integral components of this learning journey.

With this foundation laid, we aim to reduce math anxiety, build students' confidence, and inspire a sense of engagement. Ultimately, our goal is to help students develop a positive view of themselves as mathematicians.

How Parents and Families Can Support This Work at Home:

• Avoid labeling people as “good” or “bad” at Mathematics. Our focus is on encouraging all students to recognize that perseverance and success come in many forms.

• Value mistakes and errors as part of the learning process. Mistakes—whether due to rushing or lapses in concentration—are opportunities for growth and skill development.

• Focus on the mental processes and steps taken toward finding solutions, rather than solely on the final answer.

• Discuss alternative methods of problem-solving and compare their relative efficiency.

• Praise children for their effort, application, resilience, and reflection, rather than simply their success or accuracy.

Andy McKibbin

Numeracy Learning Specialist