Mathematics

Twosdays!

Did you notice Tuesday's date? 

Tuesday's date offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Tuesday 2/22/2022 is our last 'aesthetically pleasing' date in our lifetime. What better way than to celebrate everything Maths with the number 2! 

Some 'Twosdays' ideas to engage with your child:

- Can you work out a way to count from 0-9 using only the number 2? 

- Explore palindrome numbers (The USA 'twosday' written date is a palindrome!) and practice reading and ordering these. 

- There are 4 locations across the world that have the coordinates 22''22'2. What are they?

- Practice counting in 2's or even by 22!

- design a picture out of 2D shapes

- Create a shape using two pencils - explore parallel, intersecting and perpendicular lines

- How can we represent the number 20222022? 

Busting some common mathematics misconceptions

I recently read a powerful article which provided opportunities for parents to reflect on their own beliefs about Mathematics and challenge common myths. 

As parents, we all want our children to become numerate citizens but sometimes we may find it difficult to know how to best do this. Not everyone is confident with mathematics or believes that they can do mathematics. However one of the best ways we can help our children is to promote positive attitudes towards mathematics. For example, avoiding using statements such as 'I was never good at Maths.'

Jeanette Bobis is a Mathematical Educator at the University of Sydney who provides advice to parents on helping their child feel good about Maths.

“Many parents are scared of maths or think they just can’t do it, but it’s the worst thing you can tell your children…When parents tell their children that they themselves can’t do it, it means they’re communicating messages that it’s OK not to be good at maths, which can carry all the way through high school.” 

Consider what beliefs about mathematics you might pass on to those around you and how you can help develop a positive attitude to mathematics. 

To explore common mathematics myths and parent misconceptions, read further on the Victorian Government's 'Numeracy Guide.'