Teaching and Learning

Challenging Tasks

We all love (or loathe) a challenge! It all depends on what it is and our mindset. 

MRPS teachers have been investigating what constitutes a challenging task in Maths. Is it the type of task, is it a new concept, is it not showing students exactly what they need to do to solve the problem (but supporting them at the appropriate moment)?

When it comes to Maths, it is really a combination of all of these, as well as the mindset you have when approaching the task. With the right mindset, you don't mind struggling to find an answer, trying something and if it doesn't work, try something else. It's value is also in talking with your peers about your approach or listening to theirs. That is having a growth rather than a fixed mindset. 

For a student, changing their mindset around maths is something that can be a challenge in itself. The feeling that you don't know what the task is asking or where you should start is sometimes described as the 'Zone of Confusion' or going into the 'Learning Pit'.  We encourage students to feel a little uncomfortable when attempting a challenging task. Jo Boaler (youcubed at Stanford University) has the neuroscience research to back that when we struggle with something new that is when the brain makes new connections, i.e. we experience brain growth.

At home, encourage your child to persist with any new skill or task they are learning. It is not the sole domain of Maths!

Pat Withell

Learning Specialist - Teaching and Learning